RiderTua.com – Aprilia is the team that most strongly wants French rider, Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha. But now El Diablo has signed a 2 year contract extension with Yamaha with fantastic value. This makes the manufacturer from Noale Italy have to rack their brains to decide what to do next in the rider market and with the 2024 season.
Aprilia can feel a big opportunity for growth. However, before thinking about bringing in another top rider, they must first develop the RS-GP into a bike that top riders really want.
Failed to Sign Fabio Quartararo, What’s Aprilia’s Next Step?
Regarding the rider market, Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola emphasized, “We are not sleeping (silent).” But he insisted that his priority lies in developing their bike. The philosophy is to focus on the competitiveness of the package so as to attract top riders.
Rivola also confirmed that they will take time to consider their rider options for 2025 despite what Quartararo said, before he commits to Yamaha. The French rider openly admitted that he wanted to make a quick decision about his future.
He has now signed a contract extension with Yamaha and leaves Aprilia without any options. Aprilia’s plans going forward may depend on the competitiveness of their bike in the upcoming series.
Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales (won the sprint race in Portugal) form the factory Aprilia rider duo while the satellite Trackhouse team is strengthened by Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez with almost factory-spec bikes. But at 34 years old, Aleix is now the oldest driver on the grid. He is often tempted to retire, but if Aprilia’s fortunes improve and the results he obtains are consistent then he could be given a new 1 year contract.
On the other hand, Vinales became the first rider in the MotoGP era to win races for 3 different manufacturers in Portugal (although sprint wins do not count). Nevertheless, it was a timely reminder of Vinales’ talent at a time when his team has been heavily linked with Quartararo.
If Aprilia is to jump into the hot rider market this season, which riders might be on the market? Jorge Martin is expected to leave Pramac and if he does not accept a factory Ducati promotion then it is likely he will be available. If Martin is promoted wearing the red racing shirt, Enea Bastianini will lose her seat.
Yamaha’s outlay to retain Quartararo may prevent them from paying big for Martin or Bastianini, thereby opening the door to Aprilia.
Previously, Rivola had admitted his interest in acquiring the Italian rider. Marco Bezzecchi might provide another opportunity to do this. Aprilia can offer the VR46 rider the opportunity to join a factory team for the first time.
Trackhouse’s presence at Aprilia means they may be considering the option of recruiting an American rider. Moto2 rider Joe Roberts is the obvious candidate, although he is more likely to join the Trackhouse team rather than the factory Aprilia.
