Aprilia struggles to maintain MotoGP franchise status

The current MotoGP concession system includes two key dates that determine which manufacturers can access for the next six months. One at the end of the season and the other just before each annual summer break. This makes next week's Czech Grand Prix a turning point.

Currently, in MotoGP's concession categories, Ducati, thanks to its outstanding performance, has the least privileged category, being placed in the 'A' category. KTM and Aprilia are in the third-level 'C' category, while Honda and Yamaha are in the 'D' category.

Manufacturers in the 'D' category have unlimited testing rights with race drivers, more tire availability for the end of the year, and full freedom in engine development. In contrast, engines in categories other than 'D' are sealed, meaning no in-season engine development is possible.

Ahead of this week's Sachsenring race in Germany and the Czech Grand Prix immediately following, Aprilia appears to be the only manufacturer with the potential for concession category changes.

The Noale-based team needs to score at least 26 points from the races at the Sachsenring and Brno. If this target is not met, Aprilia will be relegated from the C to the D category.

Aprilia Racing special livery

Photo: Gold and Goose Photography / LAT Images / via Getty Images

Although the 'D' category will allow Aprilia to pursue more aggressive development of the 2025 RS-GP bike, the view that this reduction is a positive development does not align with the team's official stance.

Team manager Paolo Bonora's statements also reflect this goal: "We need 26 points before the summer break to stay in the 'C' concession category."

"Even though we started the season badly, we have closed the gap in the last races and have shown that our bike is continuing to improve and Marco Bezzecchi is getting better with each race, thanks to his adaptation process."

"We are working to stay in the 'C' category because our goal is to continue our development by moving up to higher categories."

"The Sachsenring has never been one of the most suitable tracks for Aprilia, but we hope to continue the positive trend of recent races here and in Brno."