Aprilia has officially become the sixth manufacturer to sign a five-year contract with Dorna Sports to compete in MotoGP through 2026.
In a statement released by Aprilia Racing, they have committed to making advances in “technological research and experimentation excellence within the Piaggio Group”.
Starting in 2022, Aprilia will now be on the track with their RS-GP bikes as Aprilia Racing Factory Team as the contract with Gresini Racing has now ended. The relationship between Gresini has been prevalent since 2015 and Aprilia still holds the team in high regard.
Aprilia Racing CEO, Massimo Rivola released a statement touching on the latest news and also made a point of wishing the Gresini team success in the coming seasons.
“I am obviously happy about this agreement. From next season, we will be participating as Aprilia Racing Factory Team. This opens up new and hopefully great opportunities and we will need to manage many additional responsibilities. It is a natural step that we are taking just as we are beginning to see the first positive signs from the hard work we’ve done in Noale, first and foremost on our structure, and consequently on our beautiful RS-GP bikes. At this time, our thoughts and gratitude go to Gresini Racing, who have accompanied us in these years. In heartfelt memory of Fausto, I wish the team and all its staff the best success for the coming seasons.” said Massimo.
Carmelo Ezpeleta – Dorna Sports CEO
“Dorna and Aprilia extending their partnership is really positive news for the FIM MotoGP World Championship. We are excited to continue this association with the Italian manufacturer in a project that has set many fascinating goals, not just in racing performance, but in overall technical excellence of the championship.”