Fermin Aldeguer will be the only VR46 rider on a factory Ducati bike in 2027
Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images Fermin Aldeguer is set to make the switch to VR46 in 2027 after agreeing to Ducati’s offer, which came with a pay bump and assurances of better machinery than his teammate. Initially, Aldeguer was placed at Gresini for his 2025 MotoGP debut because Pramac, who had been lined up as his team, switched from Ducati to Yamaha. That change also led Ducati to make VR46 their new factory-supported squad.
With satellite deals up for renewal and new regulations kicking in from 2027, having the right backing will be crucial. Ducati clearly see value in moving their rising talent, Aldeguer, into VR46 as part of that plan. Gresini owner Nadia Padovani wasn’t thrilled about losing Aldeguer.
The team had hoped to keep him for a third season. But with Ducati extending his contract through 2028, they have full control over where he races next. Fermin Aldeguer set to be VR46’s only factory Ducati rider in 2027 Photo by Gold & Goose Photography/Getty Images According to Motorsport.
com, Ducati’s decision to extend Aldeguer’s contract and move him to VR46 for the 2027 season comes with plenty of benefits. The 20-year-old had hoped to remain with Gresini, but the pay rise offered by Ducati played a key role in his decision to accept the switch. Ducati have also told Aldeguer that he’ll be on the same factory-spec bike as their two main riders next year.
That could be a big deal as updates start rolling out. Meanwhile, there’s talk that Marc Marquez is set for a new contract, and Pedro Acosta could be joining from KTM. While every Ducati on the grid will start the 2027 MotoGP season with identical setups, teams are expected to evolve throughout the year.