Aldeguer Joins VR46 Ducati for 2027 MotoGP
Fermin Aldeguer signs with VR46 Ducati for 2027, joining a new lineup; team remains Ducati satellite; Bulega expected to replace Morbidelli; Aldeguer’s 2025 win and 2026 injury noted.
Fermin Aldeguer has signed with VR46 Ducati for the 2027 MotoGP season, joining a fresh line-up that will compete under the 850cc regulations.
New Line-up for 2027
VR46 Ducati announced Aldeguer’s contract ahead of the 2027 campaign. The Spanish rider will be part of what is described as an all-new team configuration. While the team’s second rider has not yet been confirmed, it is expected that Nicolo Bulega, the current WorldSBK points leader, will replace Franco Morbidelli in the VR46 squad.
The VR46 outfit will continue as the official satellite team of Ducati in 2027. This partnership marks the first season in which the team will field a factory-spec Desmosedici under the new 850cc rules.
Aldeguer’s MotoGP Journey
Aldeguer has been associated with Ducati since moving up from Moto2 in 2024. He secured his first MotoGP victory at the 2025 Indonesian Grand Prix. The following year, however, the season proved challenging. Early struggles with the 2025 Ducati were compounded by a fractured vertebra sustained during practice at the Dutch Grand Prix in Assen, which sidelined him after the Czechian race.
The rider returned to the track recently and is poised to resume racing at the upcoming Aragon Grand Prix.
Team Dynamics and Factory Status
Historically, the Italian squad has operated with a single factory-spec Desmosedici in its pit box. That role was held by Fabio Di Giannantonio, who will move to KTM next year. Aldeguer’s inclusion brings a second factory-spec bike to VR46’s arsenal.
The team’s performance in the current season has been notable. With Di Giannantonio, VR46 achieved a victory at Catalunya and podium finishes at the Brazilian and Spanish Grands Prix. Sprint podiums were also recorded in Brazil, Catalunya, Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Season Highlights and Future Outlook
Aldeguer’s 2025 win underscored his potential, while his 2026 injury highlighted the physical demands of MotoGP. The VR46 team’s recent successes suggest a competitive platform for the 2027 season.
The partnership with Ducati, combined with the anticipated addition of Bulega, positions VR46 to make a strong impact under the new 850cc regulations. The team’s continued status as a Ducati satellite will provide access to factory resources and support.
