Aspiring to be a full-fledged factory rider in MotoGP, Marco Bezzecchi’s path took a surprising bend.
After impressing for three seasons with VR46 Racing Team, a Ducati satellite outfit, Bezzecchi landed a coveted factory contract.
He’ll be lining up alongside Jorge Martin for Aprilia’s factory squad starting next year. This move follows Bezzecchi’s decision in 2024 to prioritize stability with VR46.
He opted to race the previous year’s Ducati over a chance to compete on the latest machine with Pramac Racing.
While his initial desire was to climb the ranks within Ducati, Bezzecchi will now chase his factory rider dream with Aprilia.
He brings a wealth of talent to the team, having already secured three Grand Prix victories and a championship podium finish.
Ducati’s bombshell announcement of six-time champion Marc Marquez partnering with Francesco Bagnaia for 2025 dashed Marco Bezzecchi’s hopes of a promotion within the Ducati squad.
Bezzecchi, facing a lackluster start to the 2024 season with just one podium finish in the first seven races, has secured a ride with Aprilia, the other Italian manufacturer in MotoGP.
This move not only bolsters Bezzecchi’s career prospects but also marks a significant marketing win for Aprilia.
After fielding Spanish riders Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales in recent seasons, Aprilia finally brings an Italian rider back into their fold.