Valentino Rossi’s future as MotoGP team owner is in doubt ahead of the 2026 season.
VR46 They have been on the grid since 2022 and have built Ducati bikes throughout their stay in MotoGP. They will head into their fifth season in 2026 having finished third in the table last year.
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Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli are retained for the 2026 season, but the pressure is on to improve their results. Rossi needs VR46 to win the race This season and show more consistency.
The team revealed a new look for the 2026 season on Wednesday, trading in the 2025 white for a ‘nervous’ black to go with the VR46’s trademark yellow. Rossi He attended a presentation in Rome and was asked about the future of the garment.
Valentino Rossi says he is motivated to lead VR46 in 2027 amid speculation he may sell the team.
Questions have been raised about the future of the legendary MotoGP team owner. Many believe VR46 are an ‘afterthought’ for Rossi. In the year After missing the team’s launch event in 2025.
There are rumors Rossi VR46 can be sold. In 2026 and the team may not even exist next year. However, speaking to the MotoGP cameras at the 2026 launch event in Rome, he appeared to dismiss the speculation.
Asked whether the 2027 rule change would inspire him to lead the team into a new era, Rossi replied: “Yes, because as you said, this year will be a different season, so you have to focus on 2026, but you already have to look at ’27.”
“At the moment we are with Ducati, and honestly, I think, with all the changing rules, I think Ducati will be ready and competitive. So, it will be a very good test and we will see at the moment.”
Read more: Everything you need to know about Valentino Rossi from stats to net worth
Can Valentino Rossi take the VR46 away from Ducati in 2027?
Although Rossi seems to be interested in staying with Ducati under the new regulations in 2027, some reports have suggested that the seven-time MotoGP champion could take the VR46 to another manufacturer.
The VR46 is closely related to the Aprilia. For 2027. The Noale manufacturer is making strong progress in MotoGP, winning four races in 2025 and hoping to take the fight to Ducati in 2026.
Massimo Rivola says Aprilia wants to keep the trackhouse. They don’t have the budget to add something like their satellite team and possibly VR46 as a second outfit.
But if the VR46 leaves Ducati, there may be a backup plan. Rossi is in talks with Yamaha.The two sides have a legendary relationship dating back to the Doctor’s days in MotoGP.
