Both of Aprilia’s riders are at the end of their contracts in MotoGP, and specifically, Aleix Espargaró may leave at the end of the year. The Spaniard will turn 35 in July and has not ruled out the possibility of ending his career.
If Espargaró decides to retire, the Noale-based manufacturer has three primary targets, according to Sky Sport Italia. One of them is the current championship leader, Jorge Martín (Prima Pramac/Ducati). The rider aims to be on a factory team in 2025, and while he prefers Ducati, it is not certain that he will secure the spot.
Currently, that spot is held by Enea Bastianini, who is in the last year of his contract. Bastianini is third in the championship, two points behind his teammate Francesco Bagnaia, who is in second place, making his case to remain on the team.
Another option for Aprilia is Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46/Ducati), who started this year more discreetly than in 2023. Nevertheless, he has already achieved a podium finish and is on a clear upward trajectory, potentially eyeing a factory team opportunity if it arises.
For now, the riders from Aprilia’s satellite team, Trackhouse Racing – Miguel Oliveira and Raúl Fernández – seem to be out of the equation. Additionally, there might be two vacancies to fill, with rumors suggesting that Maverick Viñales could be tempted by a lucrative offer from Honda.