Michael Laverty says Aprilia are no longer ‘piggybacking’ Italian rivals Ducati in MotoGP
Photo by Mirco Lazzari gp/Getty Images Michael Laverty believes Aprilia are starting to step out from Ducati’s shadow in MotoGP, even though there’s still a gap in resources between the two teams. The Noale-based squad have been the story of the 2026 season so far. Marco Bezzecchi has won all three races, and he sits top of the riders’ standings ahead of teammate Jorge Martin.
The factory team are also well clear at the top of the teams’ championship, and Trackhouse have helped them build a strong lead in the constructors’ as well. Ducati have owned all three championships since Fabio Quartararo won with Yamaha in 2021, but this year it looks like their run might finally be over. Michael Laverty praises Aprilia’s ‘exceptional’ MotoGP growth Photo by Stephen Blackberry/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Laverty spoke to TNT Sports following the United States GP, noting how the dynamic between Aprilia and Ducati had shifted significantly.
Aprilia’s first steps back into MotoGP came in 2012, entering two bikes under the ‘Claiming Rule Teams’ banner. Essentially, they were racing modified production engines rather than full prototypes. Later, they moved to an ‘Open Entry’ status.
Both designations gave them certain benefits — extra engines, more fuel, and different tyre options — meant to help bridge the gap to the factory teams. Since 2022, Aprilia have competed as a full manufacturer entry. Where they once followed Ducati’s lead in development, they are now driving innovation themselves with advancements like leg wings and even an F-Duct system.
“I think back to 10 years ago, they were piggybacking Ducati’s tests, they were just watching what Ducati were doing,” said Laverty. “Now, they’ve actually stolen a march on them. They are possibly superior.