Aprilia CEO Names Marc Marquez as 2026 MotoGP Title Favourite

In a statement that has turned heads throughout the MotoGP world, Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola has named rival rider Marc Marquez as his favourite for the 2026 world championship. The comment is particularly striking given that Marquez, who rides for the factory Ducati team, currently sits third in the rider standings.

This public vote of confidence from the head of a competing manufacturer is highly unusual and adds an exciting new dimension to a championship battle that is already proving to be incredibly close after 11 intense rounds of racing.

What exactly did the Aprilia boss say?

Speaking to the media, Massimo Rivola was clear in his assessment of the championship fight. He identified Marc Marquez as the rider he believes is most likely to lift the trophy at the end of the season. For a figure like Rivola, who runs one of Ducati’s main rivals, to single out a competitor’s rider is a significant statement.

His words carry weight in the paddock — the bustling area behind the garages where teams, riders, and media operate. It’s a sign of immense respect for Marquez’s talent and current form, overriding typical team loyalties.

Why is this statement so surprising?

The main reason Rivola’s comment is so noteworthy is the current championship picture. After 11 rounds, Marquez is not leading the charge; he is in third place, chasing the two riders ahead of him who are having stellar seasons of their own.

Furthermore, it comes from a direct competitor. Aprilia and Ducati are two of the biggest factories in MotoGP, both fighting for the same prize. A team boss will almost always back their own riders publicly, so for Rivola to praise a Ducati rider in this way is a rare moment of candour.

Who is Marc Marquez?

For those new to MotoGP, Marc Marquez is one of the sport’s all-time greats. He is a multiple-time world champion who dominated the sport for years with the Repsol Honda team. However, a serious injury led to several incredibly difficult seasons where he struggled to regain his form.

His career has been revitalised by a recent move to ride a Ducati motorcycle. After years away from the top step of the podium, he is once again fighting for race wins every weekend. This remarkable comeback story is why many, including rivals like Rivola, are watching his performance so closely.

What does this mean for the championship?

In MotoGP, riders score points based on their finishing position in each race. The rider with the most points at the end of the season’s final Grand Prix is crowned world champion. Being third means Marquez is well within striking distance, but he still has a points gap to close on the two riders ahead.

Rivola’s statement suggests he believes Marquez possesses the unique combination of raw speed, experience, and relentless determination needed to overcome that deficit in the remaining races. It puts a spotlight on Marquez and adds psychological pressure on the current championship leaders.

Why would a rival boss say this?

There are a few ways to interpret this. The most straightforward is that it is a mark of genuine respect. Rivola, having seen Marquez’s return to elite form up close, may simply be giving an honest and expert opinion on who he thinks is the strongest overall package.

However, in the high-stakes world of elite sport, there can also be an element of mind games. By labelling Marquez the favourite, Rivola could be subtly increasing the pressure on both Marquez and the Ducati team, while perhaps deflecting it from his own Aprilia riders. Whatever the motivation, it adds a fascinating layer to the title fight.

What should we watch for next?

As the season continues, the big question is whether Marquez can live up to this high praise. Keep an eye on his results in the upcoming races – can he close the points gap to the leaders? Equally, how will the riders currently in first and second place respond to being challenged by a legend of the sport?

Rivola’s comment has set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the 2026 season. It reminds us that in MotoGP, the battle is fought not just on the race track, but in the minds of the competitors, too.

Quick Takeaways

• Aprilia’s CEO, Massimo Rivola, has named rival Ducati rider Marc Marquez as his favourite for the 2026 title.
• This is highly unusual as Marquez is currently third in the championship, not first, and Rivola runs a competing team.
• The statement highlights the incredible comeback and strong form of Marquez since he switched to riding a Ducati.
• Rivola’s words add psychological pressure to the championship battle for Marquez and the two riders he is chasing.