Marco Bezzecchi
Aprilia are considering a move for Fabio Di Giannantonio as an alternative to top target Francesco Bagnaia, according to a report. Massimo Rivola likely needs a replacement for Jorge Martin.
Martin has agreed to join Yamaha after a nightmare first season at Aprilia. He unsuccessfully tried to activate an exit clause in his contract last year and missed almost two-thirds of the races through injury.
Fabio Quartararo’s move to Honda has opened up a spot at Yamaha for Martin. Aprilia’s impressive progress in 2025 wasn’t enough to convince the #89 to stay.
Yamaha move to replace Fabio Quartararo immediately! 🔥 Is this a smart move by Jorge Martin? 🤔
Let us know in the comments below!
Aprilia have at least managed to extend Marco Bezzecchi’s contract, but they are now in the market for his teammate.
Fabio Di Giannantonio is on Aprilia shortlist for 2027
Aprilia have made an improved offer to Bagnaia, who is on the verge of losing his Ducati seat to Pedro Acosta. Rivola wants to form an all-Italian line-up now that Martin is leaving.
The problem is that Yamaha are also making an aggressive push to sign Bagnaia. They could take a rider from Aprilia and deny them their desired replacement.
It’s already known that Aprilia are interested in Enea Bastianini, Bagnaia’s former teammate at Ducati. But the Tech3 rider isn’t their only alternative.
If you were Francesco Bagnaia, where would YOU go for 2027?
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Di Giannantonio’s name is also ‘being mentioned’ as an option for the Noale outfit. His future at VR46 is uncertain after a forgettable season.
For all that was said about Bagnaia struggling, he still outscored fellow GP25 rider Di Giannantonio. ‘Diggia’ beat teammate Franco Morbidelli and rookie Fermin Aldeguer but P6 in the championship was still somewhat disappointing.
Aprilia aren’t the only team linked with Fabio Di Giannantonio
Di Giannantonio has only won one Grand Prix to date – the 2023 Qatar GP – but he did increase his podium tally to six last year.
Gresini could re-sign Di Giannantonio amid growing indications that Alex Marquez will join KTM, but the Roman may be more tempted by a potential Aprilia factory ride.
There are rumours that Valentino Rossi has already decided to replace both riders at the end of the year. World Superbikes title hopeful and Ducati test rider Nicolo Bulega has been strongly linked with VR46.
While Di Giannantonio has options to remain on the MotoGP grid, Franco Morbidelli could effectively swap seats with Bulega and switch disciplines.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
