Aprilia saw the departure of Aleix Espargaró, who over the years played a vital role that earned him the nickname «Capitano» («Captain»). He will now leave at the end of the year to retire from MotoGP as a full-time rider, with Jorge Martín succeeding him. However, according to Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola, if Maverick Viñales stays, he will inherit this honorary title.
The Italian made it clear who will be the leader among the riders in 2025: ‘If Maverick stays, the new «Capitano» will be Maverick, because he fought in a bad period for Aprilia, he brought Aprilia to the top level, and he showed us a different way to ride the bike compared to Aleix. In case he stays, the «Captain» will be Maverick and not Jorge’.
While acknowledging Martín’s merit, Rivola stressed that Viñales has the seniority and experience with Aprilia: ‘I’m sorry for Jorge, but you have to gain the merit on track – he did it, but on another bike. But in any team you give the grade for the most experienced and the senior one. Maverick did the process with us. Let’s see’.
Aprilia will now try to close the deal on Viñales’ renewal. The Spaniard is going through a very positive period in his career, but there is speculation that he will have a very attractive offer from Honda on the table from a financial point of view – although, in sporting terms, the Japanese manufacturer does not give the guarantees of immediate success that Aprilia can give.