Aleix Espargaro’s final flyaway race with Aprilia ended in a challenging 13th place as familiar overheating issues plagued the RS-GP in Sepang’s intense 34-degree heat. The race brought back memories of last year’s Thai Grand Prix, where teammate Maverick Viñales retired due to similar heat struggles, and Espargaro himself suffered from the bike’s ventilation limitations. While the rain during this year’s Buriram race eased conditions, the scorching temperatures at Sepang proved overwhelming for Aprilia riders.
Espargaro, who began in 16th place, battled through the pack and managed to climb to 12th before losing a position to Marc Marquez on the final lap. “Extremely difficult for us, especially starting far back on the grid,” Espargaro admitted. “I could not overtake anyone, and the engine was very slow due to the heat. By the last three laps, I almost couldn’t finish—I couldn’t even hold the handlebar due to the intense heat.”
Espargaro confirmed that Aprilia’s heat management systems have shown no improvement since last year, noting, “It’s even worse when you’re at the back of the grid.” Compounding the issue, the quick restart after a red flag further intensified the heat, and dirty air caused Espargaro’s front tire pressure to spike. “I started very low, but by last three-laps, I couldn’t even brake properly because of the tire temperature,” he explained.
Raul Fernandez: “I Was Done”
Espargaro wasn’t the only Aprilia rider who feared he might not make it to the finish line. Raul Fernandez, who had been holding 13th place, faded to 16th as he struggled with rising temperature on his bike. “I was very close to retiring,” Fernandez said. “The last four laps, I was done. I tried to finish the race out of respect for the team and my mechanics, but I was really struggling.”
With the heat building in the slipstream of several other riders, Fernandez found it difficult to cool down. “I couldn’t even lie on the bike. I had to keep my head out to get some air, but with four bikes ahead, I wasn’t getting much. I couldn’t feel my hand or foot. It was overwhelming.”
Viñales Manages Better Conditions in Clear Air
Maverick Viñales, riding in relatively clear air with no riders directly ahead, managed to finish seventh, best among Aprilia riders. He acknowledged the tough conditions, describing the race as “hot and hard, but I could maintain a good rhythm.” Fernandez observed that Viñales’ less turbulent position allowed him to manage the heat better. As he didn’t face the same slipstream issues that affected Fernandez and Espargaro.
With the final race of the season set to take place in Barcelona in two weeks, Aprilia’s overheating struggles will likely be less of a concern in the cooler Spanish climate. As the team heads into the offseason, Aprilia is set for significant changes: Espargaro will move to Honda’s testing team, Viñales is joining Tech3 KTM, and Miguel Oliveira will switch to Pramac Yamaha. Raul Fernandez remains the sole Aprilia rider committed to the team for 2025.
Substitute rider Lorenzo Savadori, who replaced the injured Oliveira, finished at the back of grid, highlighting tough day for Aprilia. However, with Barcelona on the horizon, the team can look forward to finishing the season in more favorable weather conditions.
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