P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Aprilia’s bold ‘we are the reference’ claim over Ducati in one key MotoGP area
Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola considers the RS-GP as the top bike for aerodynamic performance in MotoGP after its recent victory in Portugal. The Noale brand is wrapping up its most successful season in MotoGP, with three wins, second place in manufacturers’ standings, and a strong chance for third place in the riders’ rankings with Marco Bezzecchi. The RS-GP is emerging as a serious contender against Ducati’s dominance heading into 2026. Bezzecchi dominated the last race in Portugal, where Aprilia outperformed Ducati, which had its highest factory finish in eighth place. Rivola stated that despite Ducati having the best overall bike, Aprilia leads in aerodynamic performance and continues to improve. He believes that all five manufacturers have narrowed the gap between each other, highlighting the importance of the human factor in performance. Ducati remains dominant in the 2025 season, scoring consistently high points and winning races throughout the year.
