Aprilia MotoGP team manager Paolo Bonora has expressed high expectations for the 2025 season, with Jorge Martin set to lead the charge for the factory team. Following a surprising turn of events, Aprilia will now have Martin donning their colors in 2025. As Ducati decided to bring in Marc Marquez instead of initially slated Martin.
Martin’s signing with Aprilia was confirmed shortly after the Italian Grand Prix, and he will be joined by Marco Bezzecchi, who is making the switch from the VR46 team. With this dynamic new rider lineup, Aprilia is gearing up to be a serious contender in the championship hunt.
In recent seasons, Aprilia has shown flashes of brilliance with its RS-GP, securing occasional race victories and frequent podium finishes. However, a sustained challenge for the MotoGP title has remained elusive. Aleix Espargaro, who will retire at the end of 2024 to take on a test rider role at Honda, came close in 2022 but ultimately finished fourth in the standings.
Looking ahead, Bonora is optimistic about Aprilia’s prospects with Martin and Bezzecchi at the helm. “We are used to seeing Aleix and Maverick, Aleix for longer,” Bonora remarked. “He has been our captain since [what feels like] eighty years ago, so it is part of life. We are happy about the past, but we are seeing an amazing future.”
Bonora believes that Martin will position Aprilia well to challenge for the championship. “Next year will be another history, with young, strong, talented riders,” he said. “Jorge’s performance is clear to everybody. We expect to be part of the game next year with Jorge, as well as with Marco Bezzecchi. Because we want to give both riders the opportunity to fight for the best positions.”
For Bonora and the Aprilia team, the ultimate goal is clear: winning the MotoGP World Championship. “To be able to fight for the world championship is something that you build day-by-day, year-by-year,” Bonora explained. “The project for next year, with two talented riders, is a crucial part of this process. Their different perspectives and experiences will be invaluable for our development.”
Martin’s move to Aprilia has had a ripple effect across the MotoGP paddock, prompting Pramac Racing to end its partnership with Ducati in favor of a long-term deal with Yamaha. The team expects to sign Miguel Oliveira, who currently holds a contract with Aprilia, with KTM’s Jack Miller joining him as a teammate.
Meanwhile, Aprilia’s relationship with Trackhouse will continue to grow in 2025. The team will field Raul Fernandez and Moto2 star Ai Ogura, further strengthening its presence in the MotoGP championship.
With a strong rider lineup and a renewed focus on championship glory, Aprilia looks poised for an exciting and competitive 2025 season.
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