P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valentino Rossi’s VR46 MotoGP team is one of just four squads in the premier class that still has a rider line-up opening for 2026
Valentino Rossi’s VR46 MotoGP team has a rider line-up opening for 2026, with Franco Morbidelli signed on a one-year deal, sparking speculation on his future. Uccio Salucci, VR46 team boss, reiterated that Morbidelli’s contract allows him to join a factory team in 2026 but expressed hope for a long-term partnership. Salucci aims to secure Morbidelli a factory-spec Ducati in 2026 if he performs well in 2025, despite Ducati’s limited works-spec bikes availability. VR46’s focus is on supporting Morbidelli’s return to top form, with rider coach Idalio Gavira working on fine-tuning his riding style within the team’s supportive environment. Celestino Vietti appears to be the next VR46 Academy member in line for a MotoGP opportunity, as VR46 continues to nurture its homegrown talent pool alongside established riders like Bagnaia and Morbidelli.
