Short Description
Aprilia Racing’s CEO Massimo Rivola expresses disappointment over the lack of a title sponsor amid the team’s successful MotoGP season.
Read Time
Approximately 4 minutes and 20 seconds.
Main Article
In a recent statement, Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola revealed his frustration regarding the absence of a title sponsor, despite his team having one of its best seasons in MotoGP history. As far as the 2026 season approaches, Aprilia remains notably the only factory team on the grid without a title sponsor, even as competitors like Ducati and Honda secure lucrative deals with renowned brands. Rivola’s disappointment is palpable, especially given Aprilia’s impressive record which included four wins and a second-place finish in the manufacturers’ standings last year.
The disparity in financial backing between Aprilia and their competitors is significant. As a smaller manufacturer under the broader Piaggio Group, Aprilia lacks the resources enjoyed by automotive giants like Honda and Yamaha, who sell millions of motorcycles each year. Rivola pointed out that while regular investments have fostered improvement in Aprilia’s performance, the lack of sponsorship reflects a broader issue within the sport. The MotoGP series has seen a surge in popularity, yet it has not fully capitalized on its commercial potential compared to Formula 1, resulting in a stark contrast in team valuations.
Rivola noted that the inclusion of major sponsors could significantly elevate the financial landscape of teams in the championship. He mentioned the importance of business acumen, stating, “As long as top sponsors join MotoGP, then we will benefit too.” However, he specified that the current landscape doesn’t offer the same levels of investment that have allowed F1 teams to thrive. Rivola emphasized that while MotoGP has its unique attributes, improving the overall brand perception and marketability is crucial for attracting high-value sponsors.
Engaging With Sponsorship Opportunities
Aprilia’s competitive edge in racing must translate into attracting diverse partners. Rivola believes that if partners share the vision and support the project, sponsorship deals will naturally follow. Furthermore, he expressed hope that one day he could approach Piaggio’s CEO with good news regarding funding.
As MotoGP expands its calendar—now featuring a record 22 races—managing the financials becomes even more pivotal. Rivola advocates for a focus on generating returns for teams to ensure sustainable growth in sponsorship. He concluded that with a strategic focus on enhancing business relationships and the overall brand value of MotoGP, teams can look forward to a more prosperous future.
Short Summary
Massimo Rivola, CEO of Aprilia Racing, voiced his disappointment over the team’s lack of a title sponsor, despite a thriving MotoGP season. With an emphasis on enhancing brand perception and attracting investment, Rivola remains optimistic about future sponsorship opportunities as MotoGP continues its expansion. This focus on profitability and strategic partnerships is vital for the long-term success of teams like Aprilia.
