Massimo Rivola has pulled off a great coup by securing Jorge Martin, current leader of the MotoGP standings and 2023 vice-champion. The 26-year-old from Madrid will take the place of his friend Aleix Espargaro in the Aprilia team. It still remains to be seen whether Maverick Vinales or another rider will join him.
MotoGP, Rivola and Martin’s hiring
On the occasion of the Aprilia All Stars event, new statements arrived from the CEO, who spoke again about Martin’s hiring “All in one night – said to Sky Sports MotoGP – We did a lightning operation. After the announcement of Aleix’s retirement, we moved in the best way to prepare the ground for what could be hope. Hope was realized and we were very effective“.
Rivola clearly indicated the objective for 2025: “The goal is to win. We no longer have any excuses with a rider like Jorge. We know that we are not the references, but we work very hungry to make it. We will give him some time in the tests to gain confidence with the bike. Then with his teammate, I hope Maverick, they will pull each other. In 2025 we will start with the Trackhouse satellite team which will immediately have the official bikes, this will allow us to develop more quickly“.
Vinales renews with Aprilia?
The Aprilia manager also confirmed his intention to extend Vinales’ contract, whose permanence still remains uncertain (there are rumors about KTM and Honda): “We have always supported Maverick and we want to continue to do so. Obviously, marriages come in twos. Let’s see… He is the reference today, if he is with us he will be the priority. Otherwise, I think the market will be able to offer some nice solutions“.
If Maverick’s renewal does not materialize, Rivola will have no problem finding an alternative. The dream would be to hire an Italian driver. With Bastianini now appearing to be heading towards KTM, Marco Bezzecchi could be the one chosen for the other RS-GP.
Photo: Aprilia
