The 2026 MotoGP season represents the brightest period in Aprilia's history. At the Le Mans Grand Prix, Jorge Martin finished victorious, ahead of Marco Bezzecchi and Ai Ogura; this result marked the first time an Italian manufacturer achieved a 1-2-3 finish in MotoGP history. Aprilia continues to be a top contender not only at Le Mans but throughout the entire season.
A historical dominance
After five races, the top two spots in the championship table are entirely occupied by Aprilia: Bezzecchi with 128 points and Martin with 127, neck and neck. Such close internal team competition is a situation that few manufacturers in history have faced and struggled to manage.
Bezzecchi or Martin?
The difference between the two drivers is evident not only in points but also in their driving style. Bezzecchi displays a more consistent and stable performance, but can be under pressure in the final laps, as seen at Le Mans. Martin, on the other hand, stands out with his more aggressive driving style and ability to accelerate suddenly; his success rate in sprint races is remarkable.
How Aprilia will manage this internal competition is one of the most intriguing questions of the season. While the question of whether team orders came into play was debated in Le Mans, both drivers had a difficult weekend in Catalunya. Managing this competition in the second half of the season is set to be Aprilia's biggest test.
Ducati and KTM's response
Ducati and KTM have yet to adequately respond to Aprilia's rise. The factory Ducati team continues without Marquez and a long period without a podium finish, while di Giannantonio is carrying the VR46 Ducati flag with his Catalunya victory. KTM's Pedro Acosta, a young and talented rider, shows his potential in every race but hasn't yet lost enough points to become a championship favorite.
Mugello exam
The next stop in MotoGP, the Italian Grand Prix (Mugello), is crucial for both Aprilia and Ducati. At Mugello, known as Ducati's home race, the factory team will face a tough challenge in front of a large crowd of Italian fans without Marc Marquez. Bezzecchi and Martin, however, will be motivated to maintain their leading positions.