Ducati boss takes jab at Aprilia CEO after MotoGP silly season prediction

Ahead of the 2027 season, a new regulation change will take effect in MotoGP. Together with that, many top riders are out of contracts at the end of the year, which can lead to one of the biggest silly seasons in the competition's history.

Speaking with Moto.it, Rivola said: "I definitely think Marc [Marquez] will stay at Ducati. Pedro [Acosta] has already said he wants Ducati at all costs, so that’s practically a match made in heaven."

During Ducati's presentation, Dall'Igna reacted to the Aprilia CEO. The Italian said: "I saw that Rivola spoke more about Ducati than Aprilia at his presentation. Obviously, I’ll let him make all the considerations he wants."

The Ducati boss also expressed his goal to finalize a contract extension with defending world champion Marc Marquez. Rumours suggest that a two-year deal with the Spaniard has already been signed.

Aprilia Racing held its 2026 launch on 15 January, while Ducati followed with its own event on 19 January.

The MotoGP pre-season begins next week with a three-day shakedown test from 29 to 31 January at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia.

Check out the full calendar for the coming 2026 MotoGP season here.

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