With Marc Márquez’s departure from Honda, a significant void has been created, waiting to be filled by another rider. The big question on everyone’s mind is: who will be the successor to take over the seat left vacant by Marc? While the rumor mill is buzzing with various speculations, as of now, no official confirmation has been made.
Aprilia seems to be at the epicenter of the current market discussions. Initially, there were speculations about Maverick Viñales moving to Honda and the potential signing of Fabio Quartararo if that transition took place. However, a new twist in the tale suggests that Honda might be keen on acquiring a rider from Aprilia.
Honda’s interest seems to be leaning towards Miguel Oliveira. Massimo Rivola, in a light-hearted jest, mentioned, “I’m heading to Honda along with Maverick and Miguel.” According to Honda’s perspective, riders like Fabio Di Giannantonio, who is currently unattached, and Iker Lecuona, don’t fit the profile to ride the bike. Meanwhile, Lucio Cecchinello is not in favor of transferring Johan Zarco to the official team.
Rivola, the director of Aprilia, expressed his lack of intention to release any of his four riders. He stated, “I wanted all four riders I have, and I had contracted them for 2024 as well. From my side, they’re not going anywhere. None of them have approached me with any concerns, and I intend to retain all of them. We had also signed a rider mid-season, Viñales, but he became available.”
There were whispers about a clause in Miguel Oliveira’s contract, suggesting he could break away from Aprilia if approached by an official team. However, Rivola clarified, “There’s no such clause for Miguel. Since he’s essentially a ‘factory’ rider, he has a direct contract with us.”
Rivola also commented on the recent Marc Márquez and Honda contract dissolution, stating, “This is precisely the wrong message being conveyed post the Márquez situation.” He expressed curiosity about how Márquez and Honda reached their agreement. Rivola emphasized Aprilia’s stance by saying, “Our message is clear: we’ve signed contracts, so don’t bother us. Contracts should be ironclad.”