Ducati’s dominance is under pressure heading into the new season, and Max Biaggi thinks Aprilia might be the ones to take advantage.
Last season was largely shaped by Marc Marquez’s return to form, as he took control of the grid on his way to a seventh world title.
But Aprilia gained momentum quietly, becoming a real threat later in the year.
With Jorge Martin out for much of the campaign, it was Marco Bezzecchi who took charge for Aprilia. He closed out the year with back-to-back wins, and Max Biaggi believes they can pick up right where they left off.
Max Biaggi expects Aprilia riders to regularly challenge for podiums in 2026
In an interview with TNT Sports, Max Biaggi didn’t hold back when discussing Ducati and how they compare to Aprilia.
The former MotoGP champion was quick to praise his team, saying: “I’ve been an Aprilia ambassador for ten years now, and it’s a great privilege for me to be associated with this manufacturer.
“Right now, honestly, they’re the only Italian manufacturer present in the MotoGP paddock because as we all know, Ducati is German due to Audi’s ownership.”
Biaggi also spoke about the progress Aprilia have made and how confident he is in their ability to challenge Ducati’s stronghold on the championship.
“Now the bike has no weaknesses. There’s no track that scares us anymore. We can always be among the top three, among the top five,” he said. “And not only with Bezzecchi but Raul Fernandez has also shown that this bike works with other riders. We are very proud of this; the Piaggio Group has done an extraordinary job.”
Marco Bezzecchi is already being touted as the biggest challenge to Marc Marquez this season
Bezzecchi finished the previous campaign strong, and many people around the paddock see him as the biggest obstacle standing between Marquez and another title defence.
Marquez’s dominance wasn’t universally popular, with fans hoping for a more competitive title race this year.
Luca Cadalora, a former rider himself, thinks Bezzecchi can provide that competition once racing gets underway.
Bezzecchi hasn’t put together a real title bid yet since moving up to MotoGP in 2022. With better machinery now available to him, he’ll be hoping this is the year he finally makes it happen.
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