Beyond the victory, Aprilia and their constant pursuit of excellence in MotoGP.
The roar of engines at Silverstone Circuit not only brought excitement to the fans but also marked a milestone for the Aprilia team in MotoGP. Aleix Espargaró's victory on the British track, although a significant achievement, is not considered by the brand's CEO, Massimo Rivola, as a turning point, but rather as the expression of the potential that has always been present in the RS-GP.
The 2023 season has been a journey full of ups and downs for Aprilia. Glimpses of their prowess were evident early on, such as Maverick Viñales' second-place finish in the opening race in Portimao. However, setbacks and unfortunate situations intertwined in their path, like sudden rain that spoiled their plans in Argentina or issues during starts that deprived them of valuable positions.
The improvement began to take shape in Assen, with Aleix Espargaró securing a spot on the podium. The event in Silverstone, where the brand had already celebrated podiums in previous years, was the opportunity to shine. From Friday, the RS-GP machines showcased their potential, although rain during qualifying posed challenges.
However, Sunday was a day of success for Aprilia. The bikes stood out from the beginning, with Viñales and Espargaró contending for the lead from the first lap. The culmination came with Espargaró's victory, who engaged in an exciting battle with Bagnaia.
But Aprilia's story at Silverstone wasn't limited to just one bike. Miguel Oliveira also made a remarkable comeback, showcasing the potential of the 2022 bike. Three Aprilia bikes finished in the Top 5, an achievement that didn't go unnoticed.
Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia, praised the ongoing efforts made to evolve the bike. He highlighted the aerodynamic package introduced in Great Britain and the carbon chassis tested by Lorenzo Savadori. Rivola emphasized that this success is not seen as a turning point, but rather a validation of the team's hard work and determination.
The perspective of Aprilia goes beyond a single victory. The pursuit of excellence is a constant priority. The 2023 season might not be a title bid, but the brand spares no effort. Rivola expressed his conviction that they have improved in all aspects of the bike and highlighted the dedication and passion of the team at the factory.
Aprilia is on a journey of continuous improvement, with an eye on becoming a benchmark. Espargaró's victory at Silverstone is just a milestone on this path, a testament to the team's determination and their commitment to progress in the competitive world of MotoGP.