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MotoGP 2026: VR46 accelerates in the riders' market, Di Giannantonio remains the priority but the team prepares alternatives

VR46 wants to confirm Di Giannantonio for 2026, but is preparing alternatives. Full analysis of the MotoGP market and the strategies of Rossi's team.

Ultimogiro Newsroom · 2 May 2026 · 3 min read

Graphic: Ultimogiro.net

The future of VR46 between confirmations and multiple strategies

The MotoGP riders' market is beginning to outline its most concrete scenarios and the VR46 Racing Team is proving to be one of the most active and strategically organised teams. The line is clear: technical continuity, stability and competitiveness. However, in an increasingly fluid context, the team led by Alessio Salucci does not intend to be caught unprepared.

The statements made in the last few hours provide a perfect snapshot of the moment: the priority is to keep Fabio Di Giannantonio, but the team has already outlined several alternative scenarios for 2026.

Di Giannantonio at the centre of the VR46 project

Growth, results and mutual trust

Over the last few months, Fabio Di Giannantonio has consolidated his role within the VR46 structure, showing steady growth both in terms of results and technical maturity. The bond with Ducati and his progressive integration into the team have made the rider from Rome a key piece in the sporting project.

The desire to confirm him comes precisely from this continuity. In MotoGP, stability is a decisive competitive advantage, especially in an era in which technical development is increasingly rapid and complex.

A key piece for 2026

VR46 sees Di Giannantonio not only as a reliable rider, but also as an element on which to build the future. His knowledge of the bike and the team makes it possible to work on a solid base, avoiding the risks linked to radical changes.

The alternatives: a typical strategy of top teams

Plan B, C and D: the signal of an unpredictable market

Salucci's words leave no room for interpretation: VR46 already has several options ready in case the main negotiation does not come to fruition. This approach reflects a management style now typical of top teams, where every scenario is anticipated.

The MotoGP market is now more competitive than ever. The movements of the factory teams, the riders' choices and contractual dynamics can quickly change the balance. In this context, having concrete alternatives is not just caution, but a strategic necessity.

The role of Ducati and the internal dynamics

Being closely linked to Ducati, the VR46 Racing Team must also fit into the broader logic of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer. Decisions on riders do not depend exclusively on the team, but are intertwined with Ducati's overall management of talent in MotoGP.

This makes it even more important to have more options on the table, especially with a view to a 2026 season that could redefine many balances.

Valentino Rossi and the long-term vision

Quiet leadership, concrete strategy

Behind the scenes, the figure of Valentino Rossi remains fundamental, and he continues to steer the VR46 project with a long-term vision. If Salucci handles the negotiations operationally, Rossi is the key strategic figure.

The team's growth in recent years shows how the project is now mature, capable of competing with the most established structures in the paddock.

MotoGP 2026: a scenario still open

VR46 ready for every development

The picture that emerges is that of a team aware of its own value but also of the difficulties of an increasingly aggressive market. The priority remains clear: keep Di Giannantonio and build on already solid foundations.

At the same time, the presence of alternative plans highlights modern and forward-looking management. In MotoGP, where every detail can make the difference, the ability to adapt quickly to scenarios is often what sets winning teams apart.

A market destined to heat up

As the 2026 season approaches, further developments are inevitably expected. VR46 has already made its move, showing a clear and structured strategy. The game is open, but one thing is certain: Rossi's team will not remain a spectator.

And in a paddock where decisions turn into results, preparation can be worth as much as talent.


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Standings

  1. 193Marc MarquezDucati · Ducati Lenovo TeamES399Leader
  2. 289Jorge MartinAprilia · Aprilia RacingES355−44
  3. 372Marco BezzecchiAprilia · Aprilia RacingIT332−67
  4. 437Pedro AcostaKTM · Red Bull KTM Factory RacingES295−104
  5. 579Ai OguraAprilia · SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP TeamJP278−121

2026 season · After round 19 of 22 · Updated 1 Nov · Source: MotoGP.com

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