Aprilia have ‘initiated contacts’ to sign Fabio Quartararo for the 2027 MotoGP season

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Fabio Quartararo is increasingly expected to leave Yamaha at the end of next year, and Aprilia have sensed their opportunity.

Some feel Quartararo has already made up his mind and will reject any new contract offers from Yamaha. While he’s regarded as one of the most talented riders on the grid, he hasn’t won a Grand Prix since the summer of 2022.

Yamaha were hoping that their V4 project, as well as the addition of technical director Max Bartolini and satellite team Pramac, would convince the 2021 world champion to stay. But Quartararo isn’t impressed with the V4 and has made that clear in the media.

El Diablo has repeatedly said that the team need to give him a winning bike in the short term, but Yamaha will be focused on development for the first half of next year.

Paolo Pavesio has also condemned Quartararo for his public complaints, which suggests the team may see the benefits of moving on.

Aprilia move for Yamaha star Fabio Quartararo

Quartararo’s credentials mean that interest from virtually every other manufacturer is inevitable.

Indeed, Dorna reporter Jack Appleyard has said that Honda are ‘incredibly’ keen on Quartararo in what would be a major victory over their Japanese rivals.

Quartararo has also been linked with Ducati, predictably given the brand’s recent dominance. But Aprilia may now have the advantage.

That’s because, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, they have already ‘initiated contacts’ with Quartararo’s camp. Aprilia’s stock in the MotoGP rider market has drastically risen of late, with Marco Bezzecchi scoring a total of seven wins in 2025.

Who would Fabio Quartararo replace at Aprilia?

Aprilia are dark horses for the 2026 title, particularly if Jorge Martin can rediscover fitness and form. Quartararo needs to base his decision on who will be competitive under the new regulations, but Massimo Rivola can present an impressive project.

Assuming that Quartararo will insist on a factory spot, a partnership with Bezzecchi would be the most likely outcome. Neither La Bestia nor Aprilia will be looking to change after an excellent 2025.

Martin says he’s ‘very happy’ at Aprilia after repairing his relationship with the team. He notably tried to force his way out and join Honda earlier this year.

But if Aprilia receive positive signals from Quartararo, Honda could finally have a clear run at Martin, facilitating a more amicable departure.