“We are faced with a big challenge,” says Andrea Iannone, “The match of Aprilia with an Italian rider always creates certain expectations, so it’s up to us to channel that into positive pressure. In this sport, teamwork is fundamental. We improved at every outing and, to be honest, I was surprised at how quickly the guys at Aprilia changed the project based on my requests between Jerez and Sepang. We need to keep going like this, improving step by step. The right feeling is there.”
Bradley Smith assumes the role as test rider: “I must say that the tests were rather interesting. In my new role as tester, I tried to be as analytical as possible, and I was at the complete disposal of the team. The shakedown in Malaysia went rather well. I am pleased that Aleix was able to benefit from our work, finding a good feeling with the new RS-GP straight away. My goal is to continue working well with the Aprilia Test Team and to get close to Aleix and Andrea’s pace in the races where I’ll be riding. We have outstanding technical and human potential.”
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“It’s always risky to talk about expectations before a new season,” says Massimo Rivola, the new Aprilia Racing CEO, “but it is only natural when it’s an award-winning racing department like Aprilia Racing. Our trophy case in and of itself demands constant growth, a collective effort to arrive at a competitive level in MotoGP as well. On my arrival, I found a group with no lack of skill and passion, as well as extraordinary loyalty to the team colours which will be a fundamental part of our project. We can count on two extraordinarily talented riders who, although very different from one another, share the same extraordinary passion for this sport. It is no exaggeration to think of us as a ‘David’ against the giants of world motorcycle racing and I have no problem with this comparison since, in the end, David triumphed.”
“The final part of last season and the winter tests were fundamental from a technical point of view,” says Romano Albesiano, Aprilia Racing Technical Director, “The arrival of Andrea and Bradley added new information to Aleix’s fundamental contribution, helping us to define the RS-GP’s line of evolution. This is a project that has come to fruition this season, with an overall improvement in every aspect. A lot of work was done on making it lighter. We made changes to the chassis architecture and electronics management, leaving room for further advancements that will be done constantly throughout the season. The reorganisation of the racing department and the reinforcement of the test team were two key factors in preparation over the winter, allowing us to streamline processes and have more precise data analysis. These are essential aspects in MotoGP these days.”
“2019 is undoubtedly an important year for us,” adds Team Manager Fausto Gresini, “The new MotoGP season inevitably brings with it some expectations for Aprilia Racing Team Gresini. The new arrivals, from Massimo Rivola to Andrea Iannone, brought enthusiasm, but also overall reinforcement and reorganisation that, from what we’ve seen so far, seems to have returned encouraging results. I’m not forgetting about the Test Team which, with Bradley Smith, is doing an indispensable job for such a young project like Aprilia’s. We still have a long road ahead, but we have the skills and shared goals we need to succeed.”
By MotoGP
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