Aprilia Offers Clue into Outcome of Ducati’s Crunch Rider Decision
Aprilia has provided an important clue regarding the crucial decision of the Ducati rider for next season, which could have huge implications for the MotoGP rider market.
Enea Bastianini, who is currently fighting to hold onto his factory Ducati position, faces stiff competition from Pramac’s Jorge Martin and Gresini’s Marc Márquez, who are also eyeing the coveted red bike. Meanwhile, Aprilia is looking for a top talent to replace Aleix Espargaró, who will soon retire.
Ducati’s decision on who will take over its factory bike in 2025 is eagerly awaited, as it will determine the line-up of MotoGP riders. Last Saturday, during the Catalunya GP, Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola said: “Let’s see if we can finally put an Italian on an Italian bike, or not.” That statement suggests that Aprilia is confident in signing Bastiani for 2025, hinting that Ducati may not keep the rider with its factory team.
If Aprilia signs Bastianini, the implications for the rider market will be significant:
1. Internal competition at Ducati: Bastianini’s departure would cause a direct dispute between Jorge Martin and Marc Márquez for a seat on the factory Ducati team. Both drivers have shown outstanding skills and strong determination, which will further increase the competition within the team.
2. Strengthening Aprilia: The hiring of Bastianini will strengthen Aprilia, making it one of the most important competitors on the MotoGP grid. It will also increase the team’s attractiveness to other top-caliber drivers and strengthen its position in the championship.
3. Team Strategies: Ducati’s decision will directly affect other teams’ strategies. For example, Pramac and Gresini will have to adjust their line-ups according to Ducati’s final choice.
The riders involved were careful in their public statements. Jorge Martin has recently mentioned that he is focused on his current performance: “I’m focused on doing my best this season, and things will work out over time.” Marc Márquez, for his part, maintained a reserved stance, saying he was “exploring all options.”
The next weekend at Mugello will be decisive in determining the future of several riders in MotoGP. Ducati’s decision will be the focal point around which the rider market will turn. Aprilia’s confidence in signing Bastianini suggests significant changes are on the horizon. The coming weeks promise to be exciting and decisive for the future of teams and riders in MotoGP, with the expectation that they will redefine the landscape of the championship in 2025.
