Marco Bezzecchi’s Transition to Aprilia: A New Chapter in MotoGP

Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin, source : MotoGP

Marco Bezzecchi, a rising star in MotoGP, has embarked on a new journey with Aprilia, marking a significant step in his racing career. During the official team presentation on January 16, 2025, in Milan, the Italian rider shared the story behind his move to the factory team, revealing both professional insights and a touching personal anecdote. After a challenging 2024 season with Ducati, Bezzecchi is ready to embrace this new opportunity with optimism and determination.  

A Fresh Start with Aprilia  

Bezzecchi’s journey with Ducati and VR46 spanned five years, including two years in Moto2 and three years in MotoGP. However, the 26yearold is now stepping into a new role with Aprilia’s factory team. This transition fulfills a longstanding dream of his, as he now rides alongside Jorge Martin. The official unveiling of Aprilia’s 2025 MotoGP bike took place at Sky Studios in Milan, where Bezzecchi proudly presented his new machine to the world.  

His first experience with Aprilia’s RSGP bike came during MotoGP testing in Barcelona on November 19, 2024. Reflecting on his debut ride, Bezzecchi shared, “It was an exciting first day for me. I immediately felt comfortable on the bike, but the riding position is very different compared to Ducati.”  

Initial Impressions of the RSGP  

Bezzecchi was particularly impressed with the stability of Aprilia’s RSGP, especially in the front end, which he described as one of the bike’s standout characteristics. “The biggest difference is in the front—it’s very stable. That’s one of Aprilia’s trademarks,” he explained. “This bike gives me a lot of confidence when braking on straights. The reaction is completely different from Ducati.”  

However, adapting to the RSGP requires more than just a technical understanding of the bike’s strengths. “The way you ride this motorcycle is very different. I still need to adjust to it with each lap,” Bezzecchi admitted. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in his ability to adapt quickly to the new machine, buoyed by the strong chemistry he has already developed with the Aprilia team.  

A Relationship Years in the Making  

Bezzecchi’s connection with Aprilia dates back several years. In 2020, while competing in Moto2, he was approached by Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola. “At the end of 2020, Massimo asked me if I wanted to join MotoGP. At the time, I didn’t feel ready and decided to stay in Moto2,” Bezzecchi recalled. Despite his decision to remain in the intermediate class, Rivola gave him a symbolic gift: a handlebar stub, as a token of their future collaboration.  

Years later, after Aleix Espargaro announced his retirement, Aprilia once again presented Bezzecchi with an opportunity to join their team. This time, he seized it without hesitation. “When this chance came up last year, I immediately told my manager, ‘Let’s go for it.’ It felt like a mutual desire—we wanted each other. And it was heartwarming when Massimo gave me a second handlebar stub,” Bezzecchi shared with a smile.  

Joining the Aprilia Family  

Bezzecchi’s move to Aprilia has been more than just a career change; it has been a deeply emotional experience for him. He expressed his surprise at the warm welcome he received from the team. “This is a very special family. I didn’t expect to feel so embraced,” he said. “I visited the factory on a Wednesday, and everyone there looked at us with such glowing eyes. It was very moving for me.”  

The Italian rider hopes that his relationship with Aprilia will be a longterm partnership. “I hope this is the beginning of a lasting bond. I want people to enjoy watching me race, and I hope I can quickly adapt to the bike,” he added.  

From Satellite to Factory: A New Level of Pressure  

After spending three years with a satellite team, Bezzecchi is now adjusting to life as a factory rider. The differences, he noted, are significant. “The first experience with a factory team was amazing. It’s a huge leap from a satellite team,” Bezzecchi explained. “As a factory rider, you become the face of the brand, with hundreds of people working behind the scenes to support you. It’s incredible.”  

Bezzecchi also commented on the intensity of being part of a factory setup. “The biggest difference is in the garage. There are so many more people involved,” he said. “I was a bit nervous during my first session in Barcelona. Sitting in that chair and seeing so many people watching me, I thought, ‘Okay, if I mess up now, I’m in trouble.’”  

He was equally impressed by the dedication of Aprilia’s staff. “At the factory, I saw how hard everyone works. They are trying to give me everything I need. It’s an inspiring environment,” Bezzecchi added.  

Looking Ahead  

Bezzecchi’s optimism about his new role with Aprilia is matched by his determination to succeed. The 26yearold believes that the support and resources provided by the factory team will enable him to reach new heights in his career. “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a rider,” he said. “I’m excited about what we can achieve together.”  

As the 2025 MotoGP season approaches, Marco Bezzecchi is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with riding for Aprilia. His journey from a promising Moto2 rider to a factory MotoGP contender is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the strong relationships he has built along the way.  

In the words of Bezzecchi himself: “I hope I can make everyone proud and show that I belong here.”   

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