Aprilia is gearing up for an exciting 2026 MotoGP season after a remarkable turnaround, and the world is watching! The team, having transformed a rocky start into a powerhouse in MotoGP, is set to unveil its 2026 factory colors today at midday CET (11 am UK).
The unveiling will feature star riders Marco Bezzecchi and former MotoGP champion Jorge Martin at the Sky Studios in Milan.
But here's where it gets controversial: Martin's journey with Aprilia has been a rollercoaster. After a promising start, injuries plagued his 2025 season. He suffered fractures during testing and a disastrous comeback in Qatar, leading to further injuries. "After the third set of injuries, I started to have a lot of doubts about my future, myself, a lot of things," Martin admitted.
This uncertainty even led to questions about his future with Aprilia. After failing to secure a performance-related exit clause, Martin announced his decision to leave for the 2026 season.
However, Bezzecchi stepped up, proving his mettle with an impressive victory at the British Grand Prix, becoming a regular podium finisher, and challenging Marc Marquez on several occasions.
And this is the part most people miss: Martin's return at Brno was overshadowed by Bezzecchi's performance, leading to a collision in the Japanese Sprint that left the world champion with a fractured collarbone.
With Martin sidelined, Bezzecchi led Aprilia to its best-ever MotoGP riders' championship result, finishing third overall with three GP and three Sprint wins. A collision with Marc Marquez at Mandalika cost Bezzecchi a potential victory.
Despite these setbacks, Bezzecchi's performance in the second half of the season highlighted Aprilia's potential to challenge for the top in 2026. This season will also see Fabiano Sterlacchini in his second year as Aprilia's technical director.
What do you think? Will Aprilia's 2026 season be a continuation of their success, or will they face new challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
