Aleix Espargaró and Aprilia: close to signing for 2023 MotoGP

Aleix Espargaró and Aprilia, what an extraordinary MotoGP pairing! The Catalan rider and the RS-GP are as one, in the true sense of the word, and what he thinks, the bike does. The fact they’re lying second in the riders’ standings is further proof of the level of feeling that continues to develop between the number 41 and the Noale four-cylinder. And it would be a pity to lose that, wouldn’t it? 

Aleix and RS-GP together again next year

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In fact, it looks like they might be close to renewing. We’re not reinventing the wheel, saying that Aleix and the Noale manufacturer are discussing whether to continue or not, they just need to find a solution that works for everyone. The rider will ask for a few adjustments - also financially speaking - while the company will involve him more in development and promotional activities, without seeking a so-called "plan B".

Activities they already share which, with increasing performance and results, will take on even greater importance. While the RS-GP was previously considered the category’s Cinderella, it’s now a tough nut for its rivals to crack. Particularly with Espargaró at the helm, a rider who is more than able to exploit it, and so clearly one to keep for 2023. It would be a pity if Aprilia were to let him go, right?

Espargaró and Aprilia, 2024 option and new team-mate?

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They might either formulate a two-year contract right now, or propose a one plus one deal, so for 2023 with the option of extending it to 2024. We might be wrong, but this is how things are looking. And if Aleix were to race with Aprilia for another two years, we’d be more than happy.

Meanwhile, the situation is a lot less clear on the other side of the garage. Maverick Vinales is struggling to take off, if he takes off at all. Beyond the lacklustre results, the Spaniard is now seeking the confidence needed to exploit the bike, and therefore finds himself in a very different position to Espargaró.

Will the former Suzuki and Yamaha rider continue on in 2023? Perhaps, we can’t be sure, but not unless he can finish in the top half of the standings each weekend. Otherwise, his seat will be handed to someone else and, with its positive results, the Noale manufacturer will have more choice. It would be a pity to turn them down, right?

Translated by Heather Watson

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