Marco Bezzecchi
VR46 have been a part of the Ducati ranks ever since Valentino Rossi put his team on the MotoGP grid in 2022, but reports now suggest they may move to Aprilia in 2027.
Major changes in the MotoGP paddock are potentially on the cards ahead of the regulations changing in 2027. Along with most of the riders being out of contract after the 2026 season, the constructors are also negotiating new satellite supply deals with the independent crews.
VR46 last extended their contract with Ducati in 2024, which also saw them replace Pramac as the Bologna Bullets’ factory-supported team. But it is now said that VR46 could formalise a deal with Aprilia, and they hope that the move can also tempt Pedro Acosta to leave KTM.
Aprilia are also thought to be weighing up their options for MotoGP’s 850cc regulations era, as it remains to be seen whether Trackhouse remain in their fold. Trackhouse have been the only satellite Aprilia squad since they took over RNF Racing to join the MotoGP grid in 2024.
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Massimo Rivola affirms that Aprilia’s ‘priority’ is to keep Trackhouse as their satellite team
Trackhouse have started negotiations to join Honda in 2027, as the Japanese brand are open to expanding their ranks to include a second satellite team. Honda currently have close links with LCR, but they do not rule out having six bikes for the 850cc regulations starting in 2027.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Aprilia from the MotoGP team’s riders to hierarchy
Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola says the Italian factory’s “priority” is to reach an agreement with Trackhouse that sees the American outfit remain their satellite squad in 2027. Rivola is loath to be drawn on whether Rossi’s VR46 could also form a part of Aprilia’s satellite fold in 2027.
Rivola told Gazzetta dello Sport: “It would only be a suggestion to think about Valentino’s VR46 with Aprilia, but the priority is to continue with Trackhouse. I have a good relationship with Davide Brivio, and I’m happy with them and Raul Fernandez.”
Aprilia will hope their strong finish to 2025 helps to convince Trackhouse to re-sign
Trackhouse forged very close ties with Aprilia after taking over RNF Racing in 2024, with the American outfit establishing their base inside the Italian crew’s factory in Noale. Aprilia also began to supply Trackhouse with two full factory-spec bikes from the 2025 MotoGP season.
Those close ties paid off in 2025, as Fernandez took his and Trackhouse’s maiden MotoGP win in the Australian Grand Prix. The 25-year-old Spaniard also earned P2 in the Sprint Race at Phillip Island, and he even achieved P2 in the season-ending Valencia Grand Prix, as well.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Trackhouse including the MotoGP team’s riders
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Fernandez ultimately ended the year 10th in the riders’ standings with 172 points, while Ai Ogura finished 16th with 89 points after injuries derailed his rookie season. Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi also finished the year by winning in Portugal and Valencia for P3 in the standings.
Aprilia arguably finished 2025 with the best bike in MotoGP, as well, although Ducati’s form at the end of the term was impacted by Marc Marquez missing the final four rounds due to injury. Aprilia will hope their progress convinces Trackhouse to re-sign with them for 2027.
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