The high-stakes world of MotoGP rider contracts is heating up, and at the heart of it all, Team VR46 is making it clear: securing Fabio di Giannantonio for next season is their absolute top priority. Team director Alessio 'Uccio' Salucci isn't shy about the challenge, or the team's strong desire to keep their rising star.
Key Takeaways from VR46's Rider Strategy
- Fabio di Giannantonio is VR46's undeniable 'Plan A' for the 2025 MotoGP season.
- The arrival of young sensation Fermin Aldeguer at VR46 is virtually sealed, awaiting official confirmation.
- Team boss Alessio 'Uccio' Salucci has multiple contingency plans, eyeing several high-profile names if Diggia departs.
- VR46 harbors a clear regret over missing the opportunity to sign Pedro Acosta.
Diggia's Ascent: A Hot Property
Fabio di Giannantonio has undeniably transformed his career trajectory. After a challenging start, his recent performances, capped by a podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix, have made him one of MotoGP's most sought-after talents. This surge in demand has created a bidding war, much to VR46's delight and, simultaneously, their strategic concern.
"It makes me very happy," Salucci told Motorsport.com. "I remember two years ago when we signed him – there wasn’t much interest. We believed in him, and now he’s a hot property, which is great." This sentiment underscores the team's investment and pride in Di Giannantonio's development.
The Unspoken Signing: Aldeguer's Arrival
While Di Giannantonio's future remains a talking point, the arrival of Fermin Aldeguer at VR46 is an open secret across the paddock. The talented young Spaniard, despite not being officially confirmed, is expected to join the squad, potentially as early as 2025, with his Ducati agreement running until 2027.
Salucci spoke with clear admiration for Aldeguer: "For me, he’s a top rider. He’s already won [a grand prix], he’s young and he has many qualities." This strong endorsement signals the team's confidence in Aldeguer as a cornerstone for their future ambitions.
VR46's Contingency Plan: Who's Next?
Despite their focus on Diggia, VR46 is a professional outfit, and Salucci confirmed they are well-prepared for any outcome. "We have a Plan B, C, and D," he stated, acknowledging the fluidity of the rider market. The list of potential replacements is a testament to VR46's pulling power and Ducati's deep talent pool.
Names like Franco Morbidelli – currently struggling but with a history of pace – and a potential return for Luca Marini from Honda are on the radar. Promising Moto2 rider Celestino Vietti, a familiar face to VR46, and World Superbike Championship leader Nicolo Bulega, a Ducati test rider, also feature in the discussions. These decisions are critical, shaping the team's trajectory for years to come.
The One That Got Away: Acosta Regret
In a candid moment, Salucci admitted to one significant regret in recent transfer negotiations: failing to secure Pedro Acosta. Valentino Rossi himself had championed the young Spaniard, who is now set to join the factory Ducati team for 2027. This move dashed VR46's hopes of pairing two of MotoGP's brightest future stars.
"I do regret it," Salucci confessed. "[Acosta] and Fermin are among the most talented young riders – the future of MotoGP. We would have loved to have Pedro with us, but there were contracts and a complicated situation around him. It just didn’t work out."
