Maverick Vinales’ exit from Aprilia has been labelled the “strangest transfer” of this summer season’s MotoGP rider market.
Vinales will depart Aprilia for Tech3 KTM subsequent season to kind a new-look partnership with Enea Bastianini, in a group with full manufacturing unit assist.
His inventory was excessive after profitable the Grand Prix of the Americas and the dash race in Texas, and changing into the primary MotoGP rider to win on a Sunday with 4 completely different producers.
Affirmation that Vinales will trip a KTM in 2025 has shocked consultants inside the paddock.
“In all probability the most important shock, to be trustworthy, to leap out of the manufacturing unit Aprilia seat,” TNT Sports activities’ Neil Hodgson mentioned.
“To maneuver to Tech3 KTM which isn’t the primary manufacturing unit group. I’d say it’s the strangest transfer.
“However he’s not shy about making unusual strikes.
“My tackle that? He’s in all probability had a touch, a suggestion, that they wouldn’t proceed with him at Aprilia.
“So he jumped earlier than he was pushed.”
Sylvain Guintoli responded: “It seemed like Vinales wouldn’t have been renewed at Aprilia.
“If Maverick may have stayed at Aprilia, he would have completed.
“The dynamics inside the manufacturing unit Aprilia group – Martin, and wanting an Italian rider – it seems to be like Maverick didn’t have a spot.
“Perhaps they supplied him Trackhouse? He most popular to go onto the KTM.”
Aleix Espargaro has confirmed his retirement and his Aprilia spot will go to Jorge Martin subsequent yr.
The producer, who by no means hid their dream of recruiting an Italian rider, will discipline Marco Bezzecchi in Vinales’ place in 2025.
Vinales could have the distinctive alternative to win a MotoGP race with a fifth producer when he heads to KTM’s second group subsequent yr.
He might be joined by Bastianini, who misplaced his manufacturing unit Ducati seat to Marc Marquez within the greatest storyline of foolish season.
Bastianini selected to depart Ducati slightly than be downgraded to a satellite tv for pc group.
Guintoli reacted: “With riders, it’s a respect factor. When you’ve been in a manufacturing unit group…
“It wasn’t his fault that he acquired injured. For him, it’s a terrific alternative. That bike is quick.”
