Massimo Rivola: Aprilia Fear No Rivals as 2027 Plan Takes Shape

Massimo Rivola used Aprilia Racing’s 2026 team presentation to outline the Italian manufacturer’s long-term vision in MotoGP, while also offering candid views on riders across the grid and the developing rider market toward 2027. His comments came as Aprilia unveiled the latest RS-GP, highlighted by the return of the iconic Lion symbol on the fairing.

The reappearance of the Lion was framed by Rivola as a deliberate statement of intent from the Noale-based factory, signalling confidence rather than confrontation toward its rivals.

“I respect all my rivals, but I’m not afraid of anyone,” Rivola said during the presentation, as quoted by Motosan.

Baca Juga:Pedrosa Isyaratkan Ducati Rekrut Acosta untuk 2027

Looking further ahead, Rivola made it clear that Aprilia’s priority is stability and continuity, particularly around its current rider line-up of Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin. He suggested that, if conditions allow, Aprilia would be open to continuing with the same pairing into the next regulatory cycle.

“With Bez, we are building something that could go down in history,” Rivola explained.
“We want to see Jorge in peak physical condition and start working from there. Jorge’s speed and talent are undeniable, so we hope to have the time to do that properly.”

Aprilia’s stated objective is to retain both riders for 2027, although Rivola acknowledged that Bezzecchi’s contract situation represents the most immediate priority given his rising stock within the paddock.

“Based on what we’ve discussed, I would say yes,” Rivola said when asked about renewing Bezzecchi.
“We will definitely do everything we can to keep him, and I would also like to keep Jorge.”
“First, we need to see Jorge on track and understand how he is. I think many riders will sign contracts even before the season starts, so we’ll see. As long as we have a competitive bike, we will have good riders.”

On Martin’s recovery following a physically and mentally demanding 2025 season, Rivola stressed that Aprilia is committed to patience rather than pressure.

“I think Jorge still needs to recover physically, unfortunately,” he said.
“He also needs to slightly reduce the psychological intensity, because he is extremely passionate.”
“He is a world champion and a very fast rider. A season like 2025 certainly taught him that recovery cannot be rushed.”
“We will give him all the time he needs to come back strong, because we want to see him at 100 percent.”

When the conversation turned to Aprilia’s ability to challenge Ducati, Rivola openly admitted that the presence of Marc Marquez remains a defining factor in the championship balance.

“With number 93 on track, honestly, I don’t know if we can beat Ducati,” Rivola said.
“Last year we won the final race, but Marc wasn’t there.”
“They are still the benchmark, and we will do everything we can.”
“We must respect everyone but fear no one. The phrase I used when Espargaró won in Argentina still applies: work and believe.”
“Remember that we can be lions to everyone.”

Rivola also shared his perspective on how the wider MotoGP rider market could evolve toward 2027, expressing confidence that Marquez will remain within the Ducati structure and hinting at a potential future pairing with Pedro Acosta.

“I’m convinced Marc will stay at Ducati,” Rivola said to Moto.it.
“Pedro has already said he wants Ducati at all costs, so that is practically the ideal pairing.”

However, when asked where this scenario would leave Francesco Bagnaia, Rivola stopped short of speculation.

“I can’t tell you,” he concluded.
“But Pecco is a champion, a multiple champion. He is a temptation for everyone.”

Rivola’s remarks underline that Aprilia is approaching the next phase of MotoGP with a clear philosophy: confidence without arrogance, patience with its riders, and ambition tempered by realism. With the Lion back on the RS-GP, Aprilia’s message is unmistakable—respect the competition, but never fear it.

What do you think, Sportikers?
Is Aprilia right to focus on continuity with Bezzecchi and Martin while aiming to challenge Ducati’s dominance? Share your thoughts in the comments below !