Raul Fernandez is poised to make his debut on the 2024 Aprilia MotoGP bike at Jerez, following a delay in receiving the upgraded machinery.
Initially scheduled to switch to the latest RS-GP model at the Spanish Grand Prix. Fernandez will now make the transition during the post-race test on Monday.
While Aprilia has not confirmed whether Fernandez will race with the new bike at the subsequent round in Le Mans. Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio expressed optimism about the team’s prospects.
Brivio emphasized the importance of maximizing performance across all areas throughout the weekend, acknowledging the team’s recent progress in Austin.
The upgrade primarily focuses on the chassis, with Fernandez retaining the 2023 engine for the time being. Consequently, he won’t have complete parity with teammate Miguel Oliveira and the factory Aprilia duo Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales during the season.
Trackhouse’s entry into MotoGP led to a request for the latest-spec machinery from Aprilia. With the company accommodating the demand despite production challenges.
While only one additional 2024 bike was available for pre-season testing, it was allocated to Oliveira. However, Aprilia assured that another 2024 RS-GP would be ready for Fernandez by mid-season.
Despite the delay, Fernandez’s impending debut on the upgraded bike signifies a significant step forward for the Aprilia contingent at Jerez.
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