Italian GP, Aprilia and RNF Racing: the satellite team deal is done

If you were wondering when and how Aprilia might field a second team equipped with RS-GP machines, then here’s your answer. After confirming factory riders Espargaró and Viñales just yesterday, Aprilia Racing now announces that it will join forces with the RNF Racing Team, for a collaboration that will begin in 2023. This means that Noale will finally have a real satellite team, with Razlan Razali thus leaving Yamaha.

The satisfaction of Massimo Rivola and Razlan Razali

The Aprilia Racing CEO is very pleased with this new collaboration: "I am happy to announce the agreement with RNF Racing - comments Massimo Rivola - We have always reasoned in small steps and as we demonstrate the competitiveness of our RS-GP, a natural part of the journey is to see two more on track. The Noale racing department is a true heritage of knowledge, of technical culture applied to high performance motorbikes as well as sports management. With RNF Racing we find a partner to enhance and valorise this extraordinary heritage. We are thinking, of course, of the riders and the best competitiveness, but also of raising new generations of engineers, technicians and managers. To continue and improve the extraordinary, all-Italian tradition of Aprilia Racing.”

RNF Racing manager Razlan Razali adds: "We are absolutely thrilled for this long term partnership with Aprilia Racing. Our philosophy remains to work together with the factory team to develop riders that will one day become Aprilia factory riders. We will assist them in development to ensure that we continue to be competitive and ultimately win with Aprilia Racing. The proposal by Aprilia Racing fulfils our long term plans, strategies and security for the next two plus two years and I must thank Massimo for his trust, confidence and faith in us. We are absolutely looking forward to the season next year and this new partnership. At the same time, we want to express our gratitude to Yamaha for these past years working together and growing together. We will, though, maintain our focus on working hard this season in order to improve our results together with Yamaha and eventually conclude 2022 on a high note”.

Translated by Heather Watson

MotoGP, Espargaró renews with Aprilia: “Doubts after Le Mans, now I’m happy”