Aprilia announced a two-year contract extension with test rider Lorenzo Savadori on 10 November 2026, keeping him with the MotoGP project through 2028. The 31-year-old Italian, who has been with Aprilia since 2020, will continue development work on the 850cc bike, a role the team credits for the RS-GP’s progress.
Aprilia Racing has credited Savadori with a significant contribution to the RS-GP’s development into a competitive machine, according to a team press release. His primary focus will now shift to the technical overhaul for the 2027 season, where MotoGP regulations will introduce 850cc machinery. Savadori has already accumulated extensive test kilometers on the new prototype this year, according to SPEEDWEEK.COM.
His role expanded beyond testing in 2025, when he competed in 13 Grand Prix races as a replacement for the injured Jorge Martin, according to GPone.com.
Savadori, who hails from Cesena, Italy, has been with the Noale-based manufacturer since 2020 and remains committed to the project.
In a statement announcing the extension, Savadori expressed his commitment to the team. “I’m really looking forward to continuing my journey with Aprilia Racing, the team that is very close to my heart,” he said. “I’m pleased with what we’ve achieved so far and with how much we’ve developed. We are all working hard to ensure Aprilia is always right up there at the front, and I am proud and honoured to be part of this fantastic group of people.”
Aprilia Racing’s press release described Savadori as one of those who “best embody the spirit of Aprilia Racing.” Racing director Massimo Rivola elaborated on the rider’s value to the organization.
“Riders who are unconditionally committed to a cause and put the good of the company before their own personal ambitions are rare exceptions. Lorenzo is undoubtedly one of them,” Rivola said. “Without Giga Sava, Aprilia Racing would not be complete.”
The announcement was made via social media on 10 November, according to GPone.com. It comes two days after Marco Bezzecchi’s victory in Qatar, a result that underscored the team’s current form.
GPone.com noted that Aprilia’s growth in challenging Ducati’s dominance cannot be fully assessed without considering Savadori’s importance to the program. The outlet framed the renewal with the phrase “Some things are simply too good to change,” referencing his “unmistakable Giga Sava attitude.”
Savadori’s history with Aprilia extends back to his 125cc debut, according to GPone.com. His continuity is expected to provide stability as the team prepares for a significant technical transition. In 2027, he will work alongside Marco Bezzecchi and new signing Pecco Bagnaia on the development of the 850cc bike, according to SPEEDWEEK.COM.
The extension secures a veteran presence within the factory squad as it navigates the new regulatory era. The team’s development program will continue to rely on Savadori’s feedback to refine the RS-GP’s successor.
