Aprilia Racing shone at EICMA 2024, celebrating its champions in an event filled with emotion and symbolism. At the Piaggio stand in Milan, the Italian brand paid tribute to the riders who marked the 2024 season, from young talents to MotoGP stars. The audience was treated to a vibrant showcase that reinforced Aprilia’s competitive and innovative spirit.
Honouring Young Champions
The celebration began with the stars of the 2024 Aprilia Trophy. Thomas Benetti, champion of the Italian FMI Aprilia Sport Production Championship, and Filippo Bianchi, winner of the RS 660 Aprilia Trophy, were acclaimed on stage. They were joined by Tommaso Marcon, a key figure in developing the Trophy bikes. Another highlight was Edoardo Colombi, who, in his rookie year, achieved an impressive eight wins and twelve podiums in fifteen races in the British Superbike Championship, narrowly missing the SportBike class title.
The event also featured a special message from Alessandro Di Mario, the Twins Cup champion in MotoAmerica with his Aprilia RS 660. His heartfelt words captivated the audience as he shared his experiences in the American competition.
A New Era with the RS 457 Trophy
Aprilia took the opportunity to officially unveil the RS 457 Trophy, set to debut in 2025. Designed for young riders, the Trophy continues the brand’s tradition of providing accessible yet high-performance bikes. Lorenzo Savadori was present to introduce this exciting initiative, aimed at developing the next generation of track talent.
Off-Road Glory: Team Aprilia Tuareg Racing
The spotlight also turned to the Team Aprilia Tuareg Racing, which celebrated a phenomenal season. On stage, Jacopo Cerutti, Francesco Montanari, and Claudio Spanu were joined by team manager Vittoriano Guareschi. The team dominated competitions such as the Motorally FX, won by Spanu, and the G-1000 class, claimed by Cerutti, who also triumphed at the Hellas Rally Raid, Baja Aragón, and the prestigious Africa Eco Race 2024.
The event was also an opportunity to announce the team’s participation in the 2025 Africa Eco Race, with Marco Menichini joining the lineup to compete in the Junior category on the Tuareg 660.
Farewell to Aleix Espargaró
The highlight of the presentation was a tribute to MotoGP riders. Aleix Espargaró, who retires from MotoGP at the end of the season, took the stage alongside Lorenzo Savadori, Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola, and ambassador Max Biaggi. The farewell to “Il Capitano,” who spent eight years with the team, was marked by emotion and recognition from the Italian fans. Espargaró, who achieved historic moments for Aprilia, including pole position and a sprint win at Montmeló this year, ends his career in style.
Words from Massimo Rivola
Massimo Rivola highlighted the collective success of the brand and the promising future ahead:
“It’s fantastic to be here with our champions, from Thomas Benetti to Filippo Bianchi, and to introduce the RS 457 Trophy. It was exciting to celebrate Edoardo Colombi and receive Alessandro Di Mario’s heartfelt message. The Tuareg Racing Team had an extraordinary season, and we are ready for the next Africa Eco Race. Seeing Aleix conclude his career at his home track in Montmeló will be a special moment for all of us.”
Iconic Models on Display
Aprilia showcased some of its most emblematic machines at the event: the RSV4 X ex3ma, the MotoGP bike with its striking Perla Nera livery, and the RS-GP 24. A display of technology and innovation that reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence in motorsport.
The celebration at EICMA 2024 reaffirmed Aprilia as a benchmark for both racing and adventure spirit. The event was a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and an exciting glimpse into the future.
Source: Piaggio Group
