VR46 Targets Young Spaniard Fermin Aldeguer for 2027 MotoGP Lineup

The move would mean letting go of veteran rider Franco Morbidelli, as the team looks to strengthen its championship challenge.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:39am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaotic motion and energy of a MotoGP race, with overlapping shapes and planes of color representing the speed and intensity of the sport.VR46's bold move to sign young Spanish talent Fermin Aldeguer could reshape the team's future and the dynamics of MotoGP's satellite teams.Austin Today

The VR46 MotoGP team is reportedly interested in signing young Spanish rider Fermin Aldeguer for the 2027 season, a move that would require replacing veteran Franco Morbidelli. Team director Alessio Salucci has confirmed their interest in the 21-year-old Aldeguer, who made a splash with a strong performance at last year's COTA race. This strategic shift represents VR46's willingness to adapt and bring in fresh talent to challenge for the title, even if it means parting ways with one of their own riders.

Why it matters

This potential signing highlights VR46's commitment to staying at the forefront of MotoGP, even if it means making tough decisions about their rider lineup. It also raises questions about the role of satellite teams in the sport and whether they can truly compete at the highest level, or if they are just a stepping stone for young talent.

The details

While both Aldeguer and Morbidelli are contracted to Ducati, Aldeguer is a satellite rider, while Morbidelli is a factory-backed one. This difference in status could have interesting implications for the team's dynamics and performance. VR46 had originally hoped to sign another young Spanish star, Pedro Acosta, but were unable to secure his services.

  • VR46 confirmed their interest in Fermin Aldeguer in April 2026.
  • Aldeguer made a strong impression at the 2025 COTA race.

The players

Fermin Aldeguer

A 21-year-old Spanish rider who made a splash with a strong performance at the 2025 COTA race, and is now rumored to be VR46's top target for their 2027 MotoGP lineup.

Franco Morbidelli

A veteran rider who has been part of the VR46 team, but may be replaced by the younger Aldeguer as the team looks to strengthen its championship challenge.

Alessio Salucci

The director of the VR46 MotoGP team, who has confirmed the team's interest in signing Fermin Aldeguer for the 2027 season.

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What they’re saying

“We are interested in Fermin Aldeguer and are looking at him as a potential addition to our 2027 lineup.”

— Alessio Salucci, VR46 Team Director

What’s next

The team will need to negotiate a contract with Aldeguer and finalize the details of his potential move to VR46 for the 2027 season.

The takeaway

VR46's interest in Fermin Aldeguer represents a strategic shift for the team, as they look to bring in fresh talent to challenge for the MotoGP title. This move raises questions about the role of satellite teams in the sport and the balance between nurturing young riders and bringing in established talent.