MotoGP | Marini: “Aleix tester? Excellent, but let’s hope he brings some sheets from Aprilia”

Yesterday Motorsport.com launched a preview according to which Aleix Espargaro will indeed continue to work in MotoGP as a test rider and will do so by accepting a new challenge. His very long parenthesis in Aprilia will end in Valencia, when he will hang up his role as regular rider, and a new chapter will open for him as a tester for Honda.

The Japanese company doesn’t seem to find the right way out of the longest and deepest black hole it has ever been in since it entered the premier class, but it certainly cannot be said that it isn’t doing everything it can to try, as can be noticed from the technical innovations that appear with a certain frequency on the RC213V. Last but not least, the aerodynamic package approved for the starting riders at Mugello, after Johann Zarco had already used it in Barcelona.

Now he has evidently decided to also rely on a pilot with proven experience for his test team. In recent times the role of test driver has always been entrusted to the German Stefan Bradl, but it is undeniable that a profile of the caliber of Aleix Espargaro, who fought for the title and won 3 GPs just two years ago, can be a leap forward. quality. Also because he can bring with him many years of experience riding a motorcycle that is today decidedly more competitive such as the Aprilia RS-GP.

His possible arrival next season was commented positively by Luca Marini, who also let slip a joke that says a lot about Honda’s current moment, suggesting that the Spaniard could perhaps also bring some designs from Noale.

“I don’t know anything, but if it’s true, it’s excellent. In the end, Aleix is ​​an experienced rider. He spent many years with Aprilia and knows their secrets well. As testers, we hope he also brings some papers or something hidden (laughs). Because in the end the rider can explain the sensations and give indications, but in the end it is the engineers who have to create the bike and build it”, said Marini after finishing the Italian Grand Prix in 20th place.

The Italian driver, however, also reserved a caress for the current HRC test driver, showing off his hope that Bradl could also stay: “If he is the tester it will be perfect. In that case I only feel sorry for Stefan, because I have an excellent relationship with But maybe he will stay too, because for example now KTM actually has three different test riders. It could also be that they both work with us, now that you’ve told me, in any case I’ll go and talk to Honda to understand what the plans will be.” , he concluded.