VR46 gained prominence within Ducati in 2025 after replacing Pramac as the Borgo Panigale team's main satellite outfit. However, Valentino Rossi's team currently lacks a contract to continue running satellite Desmosedici bikes beyond 2026 and for the 2027 regulatory cycle.
The MotoGP market for the 2027 era is already starting to stir behind the scenes in the paddock, and the team founded by Valentino Rossi seems to be at the heart of the matter. But according to its director, Alessio “Uccio” SalucciThe decision is almost made: VR46 should stay with Ducati.
Despite an attempted approach fromApriliaThe Italian team is now reportedly very close to extending its partnership with Borgo Panigale, with an announcement potentially coming as early as next month.
The CEO of Aprilia Racing, Massimo rivola, tried hard to attract the team from Rossi in Noale's project for the 2027 regulatory era.
More Salucci He maintains that these discussions were merely a courtesy exchange. We had a brief chat with Aprilia because they wanted to talk to us, and we are gentlemen »
The personal relationship between the two men explains these conversations.
« I have known Massimo Rivola for many years. When Valentino tested Formula 1 with Ferrari, Massimo Rivola was managing the situation in 2004.. »
But behind the diplomacy, the reality would be clear: VR46 never really considered leaving Ducati.
« We've talked it over two or three times, why not? But I never considered changing and leaving Ducati. »
An agreement with Ducati is imminent, but a political obstacle remains…
The partnership between VR46 et Ducati has strengthened considerably since 2025, when the team became the Italian manufacturer's main satellite structure, following the departure of Pramac Racing.
Since this strategic shift, Fabio Di Giannantonio has a factory Desmosedici,
Franco Morbidelli rides with a one-year-old machine.
And according SalucciThe extension of the partnership is almost finalized.
« We are about to sign. There are only a few details left to settle. I think an announcement could be made next month.We are very close to re-signing with Ducati. »
According to motorsport. com The timing of this announcement could, however, depend on a much larger issue: the negotiations between the manufacturers and the championship promoter for the 2027-2031 period.
The discussions involve, in particular Ducati, Yamaha, KTM et Aprilia with the championship promoter, MotoGP Sports Entertainment.
In this context, announcing an agreement with too early VR46 could weaken the position of Ducati in commercial negotiations with the championship.
As a result, several teams are voluntarily delaying their announcements for 2027, including those concerning drivers.
This caution is also explained by the planned technical upheaval in MotoGP: engines reduced to 850 cc, total elimination of the ride height correction devices popularized by Ducati, new aerodynamic philosophy.
These changes are prompting some satellite teams to consider switching manufacturers in order to prepare for the next technological era. But VR46 seems to have made its choice: to continue betting on Ducati.
Behind the scenes at MotoGP, the political battle for 2027 has already begun. Aprilia attempted a strategic approach.
But for the team of Valentino Rossiloyalty to Ducati The guiding principle remains. And if everything is confirmed in the coming weeks, VR46 will remain one of the pillars of the system Ducati in the new MotoGP era.
