Love at first lap for Espargaro
Aprilia are confident they have four riders that can fight at the front of MotoGP in 2024. That was the view of Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola, who was prepared to talk up the chances of rider Maverick Viñales when presenting the new refined colours for the new campaign.
The Noale factory have prioritised improving aerodynamics over all other aspects of set-up during the winter months, with Aleix Espargaro believing the ’24 RS-GP is a clear improvement on the machine that he rode last year.
“We have not two but four strong riders,” said Rivola in Qatar. “I expect a lot from Maverick. He finished last season with a pole so I hope to start from that point. He’s ready to win. And Aleix is someone who pushes a lot. Aleix proved the new package is faster than the previous one.”
Meanwhile, results in the first part of the year will determine whether lead rider Aleix Espargaro continues racing into 2025. The 34-year-old is about to get his 14th season as a full-time MotoGP rider underway, and had previously said he would not extend his contract beyond this year. Yet if he retains his status as fastest Aprilia rider, that could change.
“The plan is to go as fast as possible,” he said. “The races will decide if I retire. If I’m as fast as I’ve been and still the number one rider in Aprilia, I will decide maybe to stay.
“Hopefully we can start by fighting for victories during the first part of the season.
“I liked the bike from the first lap at the first test. The way you use the bike in corner entry is different but it really goes with my riding style. It allowed me to carry a lot of speed in the middle of the corner, which I love.”