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The Aprilia team we will see involved in MotoGP this year will be very different from the one of 2024. In place of technical director Romano Albesiano there will be Fabiano Sterlacchini, while the lineup will now no longer consist of Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro but rather two former Ducati riders like Martin and Bezzecchi. Providing continuity within the group, however, will be test rider Lorenzo Savadori, now a senior in the Noale box.
In recent weeks came the renewal of your contract.
"Yes, I am happy to continue for two more seasons with the Veneto manufacturer. I've been racing with them since 2015 and I've been a tester since 2021. Together we are making sure we will get back in front of everyone."
How do you see this championship, so full of changes for you?
"We all have a desire to start and to do well. Marco is a pure talent, very fast, while Jorge is the defending champion. We are eager to see them on the track again. In Barcelona there was an initial approach, but in Malaysia we will begin to understand their needs better, and we will also have to be quick and good at getting them up to speed."
Were there any particular comments from the two new riders that impressed you?
"They both promoted the bike, although clearly there are aspects to improve and we know that. During the winter we tried to work to fix the flaws and make the riders comfortable. I appreciated Martin's approach, he's already a rider who leads, while Bez was very meticulous and detail-oriented. So I am very happy to have them on the team."
Is having a champion to manage a responsibility?
"Yes, but he is a professional. We are aware that we have to work hard and always give 100 percent. Anyway,the bike with the number 1 is beautiful and it was exciting to see it when it was unveiled."
Do you feel that a substantial step forward has been made compared to the GP-24?
"Yes, but there is still work to be done. We are now putting down ideas that we will apply during the season."
How was the beginning of collaboration with Sterlacchini?
"I had been working with Romano since 2015, however, I am happy. I'm looking forward to getting into the swing of things."
Are there any chances to see you in the group as a wild card?
"I have a maximum of six available, but that will be discussed after the Sepang tests. It will have to be understood where the company thinks it is most appropriate to make them. Wild cards are crucial to developing the vehicle directly on the track. Also to tease Pirro that he can't do them? No, let's say that racing in race mode is essential. On those occasions I adopt a lab bike that helps us understand the direction to take."
Aleix from being an Aprilia rider has become your counterpart for Honda HRC...
"Yes, they are already in Thailand riding thanks to concessions. From our side we will have to be good because the level in MotoGP is high and you always need to do something more. A wild card against him? Let's say I would be keen on it for pure performance reasons. The company knows that, however, I understand that it is more important to improve the bike."
