Marco Bezzecchi
Fermin Aldeguer’s move to VR46 for the 2027 MotoGP season may have more serious consequences than some may think, as Ducati decide to move him away from Gresini.
Many talents have moved fast on the MotoGP rider market to secure their 2027 contracts. But Aldeguer’s move was perhaps surprising, given that he already seemed tied down and comfortable at Gresini.
The Spaniard won the Rookie of the Year award with his performances in 2025, grabbing one win and three podiums. In 2026, Aldeguer and Gresini look like a strong match, but that relationship is set to end in 2027.
What do you make of Fermin Aldeguer joining VR46?
A report in Spain says it's a done deal
It has been reported that Aldeguer will be moving to VR46 next year, with Ducati deciding to move their rider to the factory-supported team. Valentino Rossi’s outfit are second-in-command with the manufacturer, despite losing to Gresini in 2025.
Aldeguer is directly contracted with Ducati until 2026, with the option of extending for another two years. The decision to move the rider from one satellite team to the other seems strange, and perhaps a massive own goal given the parties’ responses to the transfer.
Ducati may destroy their relationship with Fermin Aldeguer as he didn’t want VR46 move
Nadia Padovani is ‘upset’ with Ducati over losing Aldeguer. Gresini were keen to keep their talented rider on board, but have now lost both of their riders, with Alex Marquez looking KTM-bound.
It was a move that even the 21-year-old himself did not want. Aldeguer would have preferred to stay at Gresini, and when one factors in what will happen with Ducati’s satellite teams in 2027, it makes the transfer seem pointless.
Now, of course, VR46 are supported by the Borgo Panigale outfit, thus have more resources and upgrades available from the factory. Aldeguer will get a factory-spec bike in 2027 over his teammate, having missed out on one in 2026.
That does make the move appealing, but Ducati are set to hand out factory bikes across the board next season, meaning that he likely would have got one at Gresini had he stayed put.
This move ultimately seems like Ducati’s decision over anyone else. Gresini are far from happy, which prompted speculation that they could leave the manufacturer at the end of the season, while Aldeguer will stay in Ducati’s ranks, but sporting colours that he would have preferred not to wear.
Ducati are pampering Aldeguer to be their next star rider, but this move could be the first crack in their relationship, especially if he cannot adapt to his new team. After all, he will be the first non-Italian rider to race for VR46 since they joined MotoGP in 2022.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Fermin Aldeguer with his rise to MotoGP and height
What will Ducati’s line-up look like in 2027?
Aldeguer’s move, and all other 2027 transfers, are awaiting confirmation as the teams negotiate with Dorna over the next Concorde Agreement. Ducati have moved fast on the rider market to secure their talents.
Marc Marquez is set to stay at Ducati, with Pedro Acosta joining him from KTM in 2027. Francesco Bagnaia is Aprilia-bound next year, opening the door for the Shark to head to the Bologna Bullets.
Fermin Aldeguer and Alex Marquez are both expected to leave Gresini – Which riders should they sign to replace them in 2027?
With Aldeguer tied down at VR46, his teammate is yet to be decided. It is believed, however, that Fabio Di Giannantonio will keep his seat after his brilliant start to the 2026 season.
As for Gresini, they are in need of an all-new rider pairing, with Daniel Holgado and Enea Bastianini being linked. Padovani will not be forced into signing Nicolo Bulega, with the World Superbike star eyeing a switch to MotoGP in 2027.
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