Aprilia Aims for Stability at Trackhouse Amidst Factory Team Shake-Up: Rivola Eyes Continuity with Current Riders

Aprilia aims for stability in selecting Trackhouse team riders: 'The data is clear to us'

'Having consistent riders in the satellite team would be beneficial after the overhaul of the two main team racers'.

Aprilia Racing's chief, Massimo Rivola, concedes that having both Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi join the Aprilia factory team from Ducati in the next MotoGP season is "not ideal."

"Additionally, we possess a satellite team, and I'm optimistic that this team will provide us with some continuity," he further stated.

Rivola's comments bolster the likelihood of Raul Fernandez and Miguel Oliveira, the American team's present riders, receiving contract renewals, even as he underscores that Trackhouse will ultimately determine its rider selections for 2025.

Both riders are in their sophomore year with Aprilia’s partner team, marking their initial season following the transition of ownership from RNF to Trackhouse.

Based on the information provided, Raul Fernandez is in a prime position to secure a podium finish. Riding the 2023 motorcycle, Fernandez stands out as the leading performer for Trackhouse, positioned 12th in the overall standings. He captured attention with his momentary lead in the Catalunya Sprint and achieved the team's highest placement this year by finishing sixth in the grand prix.

"Rivola expressed his admiration for Raul, stating, 'I'm a huge admirer of Raul.' He mentioned that he proposed a contract to Raul following his debut race in Moto2.

"Thus, if his performance was somewhat inconsistent – particularly during his initial year at KTM, as well as his first season with us last year – I believe he demonstrated his quickness."

"I can confirm that our information demonstrates Raul's speed in a way that exceeds what you [the media] typically observe through race results or lap timings."

"However, the information suggests that he might be in a position to secure a podium finish."

"Clearly, numerous elements are essential. It's important to begin well and from a favorable spot, yet having the pace is key. I genuinely admire Raul and am eager for him to remain with us."

"Miguel's potential for strong results at Aprilia is evident"

With Trackhouse entering the scene, Oliveira, who has won five races with KTM, was upgraded to the 2024 RS-GP bikes. However, he hasn't yet achieved the same level of success in Sprint/Grand Prix races as the main riders, Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales.

"Initially, whether [Oliveira] remains involved or not is a decision that will rest with him and Trackhouse. It's not up to me. Primarily, it's up to Davide and, of course, Justin Marks," Rivola stated.

"Personally, my preference was for Miguel to join Aprilia, and I still believe that Miguel at Aprilia can achieve impressive results."

"Last year proved to be particularly unfortunate for a rider, as he experienced severe crashes involving first Marc and then Fabio. Consequently, it turned into a challenging season for him."

This year, clearly, the anticipations were elevated given how the ['24] motorcycle performed with Maverick and Aleix on occasion.

"However, it's accurate to state that the squad essentially entered this season with the same lineup as the previous one. With Davide [Brivio]'s arrival at [Trackhouse], there's been a shift towards innovation, with requests for new engineers and fresh concepts being put forward. Thus, it's an ongoing effort. Developing a more robust team takes time.

"I genuinely hope that Oliveira and Trackhouse manage to maintain their partnership, as it would be beneficial for the satellite team to retain the same riders, especially considering the changes in the factory team."

"However, I am confident that Davide, given his extensive experience, will discover what is most suitable for his squad."

Former Suzuki world champion Joan Mir, who has since moved to Repsol Honda, along with Joe Roberts, an American contender for the Moto2 title, are rumored to be in discussions with the Trackhouse team for the 2025 season.

Discover Further

Recent Updates

Current Headlines

Navigation

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Copying or replicating the text, images, or illustrations in full or in part is strictly forbidden in any manner.