MotoGP 2026: Francesco Bagnaia to join Aprilia Racing from 2027

Aprilia Racing has confirmed that Francesco (Pecco) Bagnaia will join the factory MotoGP team from the 2027 season after signing a multi-year contract. The Italian rider will partner Marco Bezzecchi, giving the Noale-based manufacturer an all-Italian rider lineup.

Bagnaia’s move comes ahead of MotoGP’s major technical regulation changes in 2027, when the championship will switch to 850cc engines. That resets the field and Bagnaia will be hoping to make a big impact. Pecco was reportedly offered a lot more money from Japanese manufacturers on the Grid, citing his expertise and knowledge after having spent considerable time in the Factory Ducati camp. However, with Pedro Acosta taking Pecco’s place and considering the Factory Aprilia’s impressive showing this year, Pecco stuck with the Italian team.

The 29-year-old is one of the most successful riders on the current MotoGP grid. Since making his Grand Prix debut in 2013, Bagnaia has won three world championships, including the Moto2 title in 2018 and back-to-back MotoGP crowns in 2022 and 2023. He has also accumulated 41 race wins, 86 podium finishes, and 35 pole positions during his career.

Aprilia said Bagnaia’s arrival reinforces its ambitions of fighting consistently at the front of MotoGP while underlining its commitment to an Italian rider pairing.