Marco Bezzecchi
Reports are suggesting that Fermin Aldeguer is set to join VR46 in 2027, and Uccio Salucci did not shy away from the rumours.
The Gresini rider has established himself as a star talent in MotoGP. Aldeguer won the Rookie of the Year award in 2025, having finished eighth in the standings with one Grand Prix win in Indonesia.
What do you make of Fermin Aldeguer joining VR46?
A report in Spain says it's a done deal
He was denied a factory bike in 2026, despite his contract with Ducati saying that he would get one. But in 2027, Aldeguer, and all other Ducati riders for that matter, will be supplied with factory machinery, and his will be sporting different colours.
Aldeguer is set to join VR46 in 2027 as Ducati plan to move him from Gresini. Valentino Rossi’s team are second-in-command at the Borgo Panigale outfit, which will give the Spaniard factory support.
Uccio Salucci confirms VR46’s interest in Fermin Aldeguer
Changes are afoot at VR46 next year with the 21-year-old coming on board. Pedro Acosta had been the team’s primary target, but with the factory Ducati team swooping in to sign him, they had to explore alternatives.
At least one of VR46’s current line-up is set to leave the team at the end of 2026, with Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli both out of contract. The former will likely keep his seat after his electric start to the season.
Diggia looks to be partnering with Aldeguer in 2027, and VR46 chief Salucci expressed the team’s interest in the Spaniard during the United States GP.
He said via Sky Italia: “We’re interested in Fermin, we’ve never hidden it. He’s a fantastic rider, he’s 21 years old. He’s a bit of everything: a young rider, a top rider, someone with experience. So we like him.”
READ MORE: Everything to know about Fermin Aldeguer with his rise to MotoGP and height
Fermin Aldeguer’s VR46 move has caused friction between Ducati and Gresini
Aldeguer’s 2027 move has caused quite the stir at Ducati, particularly with his current team, who look set to lose both of their riders. Alex Marquez will join KTM in 2027.
But his teammate’s exit has caused the most drama. Nadia Padovani is ‘upset’ with Ducati over Aldeguer leaving for VR46, with the team boss being keen to keep her talented rider on board in 2027.
Fermin Aldeguer and Alex Marquez are both expected to leave Gresini – Which riders should they sign to replace them in 2027?
It led to speculation that Gresini could leave Ducati’s line-up next year. Reportedly, they were in talks with Honda and Aprilia over potential deals.
However, in the end, they look set to stay with the Borgo Panigale outfit, and with a new rider line-up. Enea Bastianini and Daniel Holgado are being linked with Gresini for 2027.
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