Team VR46 has made its position clear as the MotoGP rider market begins to take shape, with retaining Fabio Di Giannantonio emerging as its main objective for the upcoming season.
Team director Alessio Salucci acknowledged the increasing competition for the Italian rider, whose recent performances have significantly boosted his value in the paddock. Once overlooked in the market, Di Giannantonio has turned his fortunes around, highlighted by a podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix.
Salucci said the team takes pride in having backed the rider early in his resurgence. He noted that interest in Di Giannantonio was limited when VR46 first signed him, but his current form has now made him one of the more desirable names on the grid.
While discussions around Di Giannantonio’s future continue, VR46 is also expected to welcome Fermin Aldeguer in the near future. Although not officially announced, the young Spaniard is widely tipped to join the team, with a long term agreement already in place with Ducati.
Salucci spoke highly of Aldeguer, describing him as one of the sport’s most promising young riders and a key part of VR46’s long term plans.
Despite its focus on securing Di Giannantonio, the team is preparing for alternative outcomes. Salucci confirmed that several contingency options are being considered, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the current market.
Among the names linked to VR46 are Franco Morbidelli, who is aiming to rediscover his best form, and Luca Marini, who could be in line for a return. Younger prospects such as Celestino Vietti and Nicolo Bulega are also under consideration.
Salucci also admitted to one missed opportunity in recent negotiations, revealing the team had hoped to secure Pedro Acosta. The highly rated Spaniard, supported by Valentino Rossi, is instead set to join Ducati’s factory setup in the future.
Although disappointed, Salucci acknowledged that contractual complexities prevented the move, bringing an end to VR46’s ambition of pairing two of MotoGP’s brightest young talents.
As the rider market continues to evolve, VR46 faces a crucial period that could define its competitiveness in the coming seasons.
