MotoGP’s Rivola: Bastianini in Aprilia? Italian Rider Considered Valuable
Massimo Rivola, CEO of Aprilia Racing, raises the possibility of including Enea Bastianini in the MotoGP team and emphasizes the importance of the presence of an Italian pilot. Although Rivola admits his preference for Bastianini, he states that the final decision is not final and the search for an Italian driver is aimed at strengthening the team.Bastianini, now at Ducati, is considered a highly respected rider by Rivola. Rivola states that Bastianini’s manager, Carlo Pernat, recognized Rivola’s influence in negotiations with Ducati. While Aprilia CEO emphasizes the advantages that an Italian pilot will bring, he states that he is cautious in saying whether Bastianini is the final choice.Currently, Aprilia has two Spanish drivers in its MotoGP factory team: Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, whose contracts expire this season. The interest in Bastianini demonstrates the strategic value of having an Italian driver and is in line with Aprilia’s recent successes and the impressive performance of its drivers in the Africa Eco Race.
Despite speculation about the future of his teams, Rivola expresses satisfaction with his current drivers, Trackhouse Racing, as well as Miguel Oliveira and Raúl Fernández. The Italian CEO assures that the first three months of the pilot market will be busy, but the team will approach this period calmly.The search for an Italian pilot is not only a strategic choice, but also a cultural thought.
Rivola emphasizes the positive impact of victories achieved by Italian pilots and motorcycles, stating that the team is trying to strengthen its identity and appeal to Italian fans, beyond its performance.Having encountered difficulties in previous seasons, Aprilia expresses moderate optimism for 2024. Rivola says he expects an interesting season, while acknowledging the intense competition against Japanese manufacturers, the rapid rise of KTM and especially a striking advantage for Ducati in terms of numbers and results.
The partnership with the Trackhouse team is considered an excellent opportunity for Aprilia Racing in terms of both marketing and performance. Rivola states that over time, Trackhouse will become the second official team and will further strengthen Aprilia’s presence in the MotoGP scene.While uncertainty remains about the identity of Oliveira’s next driver at Trackhouse, the possibility of an Italian driver in the main team remains an interesting topic of discussion.
The 2024 rider market will be followed with great excitement by Aprilia fans and MotoGP enthusiasts around the world.
