VR46 Triumph: Nurturing MotoGP Talent and the Ambition Beyond Bezzecchi’s Aprilia Move

VR46: Bezzecchi's Move to Aprilia Adds Fuel to Our Drive

Alessio Salucci: "For our team, this move serves as an added incentive to keep pushing forward, aiming to establish a replicable blueprint."

Luca Marini's recent move to Repsol Honda and Marco Bezzecchi's upcoming transition to Aprilia signify another success for VR46 in advancing young talents into premier MotoGP teams.

Certainly, by the upcoming season, each of the four VR46 Academy racers in MotoGP will have had the experience of racing for factory teams, with the current champion Francesco Bagnaia competing for Ducati, and Franco Morbidelli having spent two seasons with Yamaha prior to his move to Pramac.

However, with Marini and recently Bezzecchi departing, and the absence of any other emerging Academy stars prepared to step into MotoGP, what position does this put the VR46 team in?

Director Alessio Salucci characterized Bezzecchi's contract with Aprilia, which was arranged internally by the VR46 Academy, as follows:

"It's a moment filled with mixed emotions. While it brings joy to know we've significantly contributed to the advancement of a young rider from the VR46 Riders Academy to a professional team."

"On the flip side, having spent five seasons together, our bond with Marco has evolved into something truly unique and personal. We've experienced numerous memorable moments side by side, and many of our historical achievements are intertwined with his contributions."

Salucci emphasized that, instead of declaring their objectives achieved, the team is setting their sights higher as they move beyond the Bezzecchi period.

"The agreement with Bezzecchi and Aprilia is a significant milestone for our team, serving as both a source of pride and an incentive for us to maintain our course. Our goal is to establish a replicable model, set ambitious targets, and affirm our position as a benchmark organization in the championship," he stated.

"Regarding Marco, apart from his impressive achievements, the numerous experiences we've shared together, both during races and in our personal time, will stay with us."

"As part of the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team, all we can do is wish him a future brimming with achievements and joy. Up until Valencia, we are committed to diligently pursuing our high-reaching objectives without overlooking any detail."

Compatriot Fabio di Giannantonio, who isn't affiliated with the VR46 Academy, presently ranks higher than Bezzecchi in the world championship standings, while also being his teammate.

VR46 is expected to strengthen its relationship with Ducati next year, taking advantage of Pramac’s anticipated move to Yamaha.

Should Pramac become part of Yamaha, VR46 could potentially retain an Academy rider through Morbidelli for the 2025 season.

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