Marco Bezzecchi
Massimo Rivola hopes Marc Marquez can return to MotoGP action as quickly as possible so Aprilia can fight against ‘the best rider’.
Seven-time world champion Marquez endured a tough weekend in Le Mans after he crashed out of the Sprint.
The 33-year-old was trying to stay on the back of Honda rider Luca Marini but highsided violently at Turn 13.
After limping away from the accident, it was later confirmed that the Spaniard suffered a metatarsal fracture on his right foot.
Marquez has since undergone surgery to treat his right foot, as well as his troublesome right shoulder. It is currently unconfirmed when he will return to the track.
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Massimo Rivola wants quick return for Marc Marquez
Speaking recently to Speedweek, Aprilia team boss Rivola sent his best wishes to Marquez and expressed his desire for the Spaniard to make a swift return to the track.
Rivola stated that he wants his Aprilia team to fight against the best bike and the best rider in order to see what they can achieve.
Rivola said: “We’re talking about half a second or a tenth of a second – the gap to KTM and Ducati is vanishingly small.
“I wish Marc all the best. I hope he comes back 100 per cent fit and in good shape, because we want to fight against the best bike and the best rider. We want to see what we can achieve.”
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It has been a fine start to the 2026 MotoGP season for Aprilia, as they sit top of the standings with 255 points.
Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin are in a battle for the world championship, with the former currently leading by just one point ahead of this weekend’s Catalan Grand Prix.
Rivola has claimed that they have the ‘best bike’ and praised the impact of Fabiano Sterlacchini. However, the Italian suggested that it is too early to say Aprilia are dominating the field.
Rivola said: “We have the best bike because we have become an even better company.
“A big thank you also to Fabiano Sterlacchini, who helped us with his technical expertise to become an even stronger racing company – with the racing-oriented approach, fast problem solving and quick decisions. Everything we learn now will also benefit us in 2027.
“I don’t think we can talk about dominance, because there were only five race weekends. The season is long and MotoGP is not the 125 or 250 class – it’s a different story.”
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