Aprilia secures Lorenzo Savadori’s future as key figure in MotoGP’s new 850cc era

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Aprilia has officially extended its contract with Lorenzo Savadori, confirming the veteran Italian test rider’s continued role through the pivotal transition to MotoGP’s 850cc regulations. Savadori, a stalwart presence within the Noale factory’s setup for well over a decade, will remain integral to Aprilia’s development programme until the end of 2028.

Savadori’s longstanding bond with Aprilia dates back to his European Superstock days aboard the RSV4 and continued through his WorldSBK campaigns in 2017 and 2018 with the SMR team. Since 2019, he has been deeply embedded in Aprilia’s MotoGP project, stepping up from test rider to full-time racer during the 2020 season after Bradley Smith’s departure. His race stint concluded mid-2021 when Maverick Viñales joined the team, but Savadori resumed his role as a test rider and development specialist, playing a crucial role in refining the RS-GP’s competitive edge during the final years of the 1000cc era.

With the sport’s shift to the new 850cc class, Aprilia’s confidence in Savadori’s expertise is clear. The Italian rider has already contributed to the early stages of the RS-GP’s evolution for the upcoming regulations, underscoring his value to the team’s long-term strategy. Aprilia’s commitment to Savadori until 2028 reflects their intent to maintain continuity and harness his intimate knowledge of the bike’s development.

“I am really glad to continue my journey with Aprilia Racing, to which I am deeply attached,” Savadori stated following the contract renewal. “I am happy with what we have achieved so far and how much we have grown. We are all working hard to always see Aprilia at the front, and I am proud and honoured to be part of this fantastic group of people, who put not only a huge amount of effort, but also a lot of heart into everything they do.”

Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola praised Savadori’s dedication, highlighting his rare commitment to the team’s success above personal ambition. “Riders who unconditionally embrace a cause and put the company’s well-being ahead of their own personal ambition are rare exceptions,” Rivola said. “Lorenzo is undoubtedly one of them, and that is one of the reasons why Aprilia Racing has become a benchmark in the top class with a completely unified team spirit. Aprilia Racing wouldn't be complete without Giga Sava.”

Savadori’s retention signals Aprilia’s strategic focus on stability and technical advancement as MotoGP embarks on a new technical chapter. His role will be critical in shaping the RS-GP’s competitiveness under the 850cc formula, positioning Aprilia as a formidable contender in the evolving landscape of premier class motorcycle racing.