Rivola Praises Bagnaia’s Sepang Test Performance as 2027 Aprilia Rumours Grow

Aprilia Racing CEO highlights strong Sprint pace from Ducati star amid MotoGP rider market speculation.

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Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola has spoken positively about Francesco Bagnaia’s performance at the Sepang MotoGP test, as speculation continues to build around the Italian rider’s future beyond the 2026 season.

Bagnaia impressed during the test by delivering a strong Sprint simulation, finishing second only to Alex Marquez. His pace placed him ahead of Marc Marquez over the same run, underlining a return to form after an inconsistent 2025 campaign.

While Rivola’s comments may have been purely sporting in nature, they have added further fuel to rumours linking the former world champion with a potential Aprilia move for 2027. Reports suggest Ducati could be considering Pedro Acosta as a future partner to Marc Marquez in the new 850cc era, placing Bagnaia’s long-term position under scrutiny.

According to a report from Crash.net, when asked directly about his future during the test, Bagnaia offered a cryptic response.

“On the table in front of me I have great opportunities, and I will decide very soon,” he said.

One of those opportunities is believed to involve Aprilia. The Noale-based manufacturer recently became the first team to confirm a 2027 factory signing, extending the contract of Marco Bezzecchi just ahead of the Sepang test. However, the second factory seat remains undecided, with Jorge Martin currently sidelined through injury and already linked to a possible move to Yamaha.

Speaking to MotoGP’s official website, Rivola did not rule out retaining Martin but admitted Aprilia is prepared for multiple outcomes.

“We have plans B, C and D,” he said.

Aprilia ended last season as Ducati’s closest challenger, claiming five victories across the final ten Sprint and Grand Prix races, although Marc Marquez’s absence due to injury played a role. Sepang was a rare off-weekend for the manufacturer, marking the only round without a podium finish or race win.

Despite this, Bezzecchi closed the three-day test as the fastest rider in the final session and second overall, again behind Alex Marquez. His Sprint pace, however, remained slightly behind Ducati’s benchmark, possibly due to tyre usage.

Rivola remained encouraged by Aprilia’s progress.

“I’m happy that the 2026 bike is better than the 2025 one,” he said. “It shows that Noale can build good bikes and improve them year after year.”

However, Rivola acknowledged that the competition has also taken a step forward.

“Everyone improved. Honda looked very fast, Ducati is still the reference, and KTM is better than last year. I think it’s going to be a very interesting championship.”

When asked to predict the season ahead, Rivola returned to Bagnaia’s Sepang form, offering clear praise for the Ducati rider.

“We saw a very strong sprint simulation from Pecco,” he said. “I’m glad to see him back so strong here.”

The MotoGP paddock now turns its attention to the final pre-season test at Buriram, Thailand, scheduled for 21–22 February, where teams will look to finalise preparations ahead of the new season.