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Aleix Espargaro’s retirement opens up a very appealing factory MotoGP seat for 2025. Here are all the repercussions
Aleix Espargaro’s retirement from full-time MotoGP competition in 2024 may bring relief to some of his peers, potentially leading to minimal rider roster changes for the 2025 season. However, several factors such as standout performances from riders like Sergio Garcia and Joe Roberts could disrupt this scenario. Nonetheless, Espargaro’s departure will greatly impact the Aprilia team due to the strong performance he achieved with the RS-GP, making his seat a highly sought-after opportunity for free agents. With Espargaro leaving, Aprilia might extend Maverick Vinales’ contract for line-up stability and his promising start to the 2024 season. Despite Vinales’ inclination towards staying at Aprilia, contract negotiations remain a fluid situation, especially with potential outside signings in the mix. The future of MotoGP’s grid will be influenced by Ducati’s decision on their second works ride for 2025, with Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini, and Marc Marquez vying for the seat. Marquez seems to have a clear idea of his plans, hinting at staying with Gresini Ducati.