Bagnaia Reveals He Targeted Aprilia Since Last Season

Francesco Bagnaia has finally revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave Ducati Lenovo Team at the end of the 2026 season. The two-time world champion admitted he had already started building the decision to join Aprilia Racing midway through last season before officially signing a four-year contract through MotoGP 2030.

Bagnaia explained that a long-term contract was one of the main conditions he wanted. According to the Italian rider, the four-season commitment reflects his belief in Aprilia's project and the strong support shown by the Noale manufacturer.

"I'm super excited and very happy. I really wanted a long-term contract. Four years feels like a very long time in this sport, but I really believe in the project and the support they have given me is fantastic."

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Although he admitted having several options for the 2027 season, Bagnaia stressed that Aprilia had always been his main target. He revealed that talks with the team had actually been ongoing for several years before an agreement was finally reached.

"I had several options, but I really wanted to join Aprilia because we had been discussing it for years. Every season I always said, 'let's see', and finally the moment arrived. I believe a fully Italian team can do an incredible job."

Bagnaia also revealed that the decision-making process began last season when the situation at Ducati started to change. A different approach and mindset made him begin considering a future outside the Bologna manufacturer.

"Last season was clearly difficult. We started to have a different approach and a different mindset, and I started building this decision midway through last season."

In MotoGP 2027, Bagnaia will share the garage with his close friend, Marco Bezzecchi. Both riders are graduates of the VR46 Rider Academy. Although he understands that friendship can change when two riders are placed in the same team, Bagnaia is optimistic their collaboration will remain positive.

"Sometimes with good friends there can be arguments when you are in the same team. But I don't think that will happen. I have always had a good relationship with every teammate, and with Bez our relationship is already very good, so I believe everything will go well."

Before starting his new adventure with Aprilia, Bagnaia stressed that his focus remains on completing the 2026 season with Ducati as strongly as possible. After winning the Sprint in Brno and returning to the podium in the Czech Grand Prix, he wants to end his journey with Ducati with the best possible results.

"There are still 13 races remaining. I really want to end my career with Ducati with fantastic results."

All updates on the MotoGP 2027 rider market, contracts, and transfer rumours can be followed through the dedicated MotoGP 2027 Silly Season page.