Raul Fernandez: ‘90%’ Chance of Getting 2024 Aprilia by Silverstone
Raul Fernandez, rider for the Trackhouse satellite team in MotoGP, is optimistic about the possibility of receiving the 2024 specification Aprilia RS-GP after the summer break at the Silverstone stage. Fernandez, who is currently the only Aprilia rider still using last year’s RS-GP23, eagerly awaits the upgrade promised by the Italian factory.
Since the introduction of the new model, Aprilia has worked to ensure that all of its riders have the best technology available. However, homologation rules prevent engine modifications during the season, only allowing changes to the rest of the bike, including an aerodynamic upgrade. The arrival of this aerodynamic upgrade is essential so that Fernandez can compete on equal terms with his teammates.”I believe I will receive the new bike at Silverstone, 90% sure,” declared Fernandez. “They are checking to give me the bike there.” The expectation is that the new aerodynamics, also designed to solve overheating problems faced in races outside Europe, will be ready in time for Silverstone.
Fernandez’s plans to test the 2024 bike at the recent Mugello test were thwarted by bad weather, which prevented a full evaluation. “The idea [for the Mugello test] was to understand the bike and prepare it for Silverstone,” explained the rider, demonstrating his frustration with the adverse conditions.Fernandez, who led a MotoGP race for the first time at the Catalunya Sprint, currently sits in 12th position in the world championship, three places ahead of his teammate Miguel Oliveira.
He recently underwent surgery to treat compartment syndrome, a problem that hampered his performance in recent rounds. “Also in Barcelona, when I was with Marc [Marquez] and Aleix [Espargaro], I lost the fight for the podium because of that problem,” commented Fernandez, who finished sixth in Catalunya, his best result of the season so far.Fernandez’s future at Aprilia looks bright, with the upgrade to the bike’s 2024 specification looming. Jorge Martin is the only Aprilia rider confirmed for 2025, with current factory riders Aleix Espargaro (retirement) and Maverick Vinales (Tech3 KTM) already confirmed to be leaving. The departure of the current riders increases the chances of Oliveira and/or Fernandez remaining in the team, due to their experience with the bike and to ensure continuity.
However, VR46’s Marco Bezzecchi is strongly tipped to land the remaining factory seat alongside Martin, achieving Aprilia’s aim of signing a fast Italian rider.
Meanwhile, Fernandez remains focused on regaining his confidence and competitiveness. “I’m more concerned about regaining my confidence on the bike than deciding my future,” he said. With the upgrade to Aprilia’s 2024 specification, Fernandez hopes to achieve better results and solidify his place in the team for years to come.
