Valentino Rossi’s VR46 Rejects Aprilia Approach to Finalize Three Year Extension with Ducati for 2027 MotoGP Era

Valentino Rossi’s VR46 team confirms a new Ducati deal for 2027-2029 is imminent, ending speculation of a switch to Aprilia or Yamaha for the 850cc era.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 10, 2026, 7:36 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Motorsport.com

Commitment to the Borgo Panigale Powerhouse

The partnership between VR46 Racing and Ducati is set to enter a new chapter as the team nears a formal contract extension covering the 2027 to 2029 seasons. Since its premier class debut in 2022, Valentino Rossi’s outfit has evolved from a newcomer into a consistent race-winning force, largely due to the technical superiority of the Desmosedici. Team Principal Uccio Salucci revealed that while the current agreement expires at the end of 2026, the bond with Ducati has been further solidified by the team's transition to a factory-supported status. This evolution has already seen riders like Fabio di Giannantonio receive current-spec machinery directly from the manufacturer.

Polite Rejection of the Aprilia Proposal

During the winter break, Aprilia reportedly initiated contact with VR46 leadership to discuss a potential supply deal for the upcoming 850cc technical era. Salucci acknowledged that exploratory talks took place with Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola, citing a professional relationship that dates back over two decades to Rossi’s initial Formula 1 tests with Ferrari. Despite describing the discussions as a courtesy between "gentlemen," Salucci emphasized that the team never seriously entertained the prospect of leaving its current partner. The decision underscores a strategic preference for the stability and performance benchmarks established by the Ducati platform.

Navigating the Speculation of a Yamaha Switch

The announcement effectively silences long-standing rumors linking VR46 to a possible partnership with Yamaha. Given Valentino Rossi’s iconic history and current role as a brand ambassador for the Iwata-based manufacturer, many paddock insiders had anticipated a move to the Japanese marque. However, the competitive gulf between the leading European manufacturers and their Japanese counterparts appears to have been a deciding factor. By choosing to remain with Ducati, VR46 ensures its riders continue to have access to what Salucci describes as the "best bike in the world," prioritizing podium potential over historical brand sentiment.