Rául Fernández Has To Adapt - Massimo Rivola: "He Hasn't Shown It So Far"
Categories: MotoGP
After a rookie season to forget, Raúl Fernandez joins RNF Aprilia for 2023. Aprilia Sporting Director Massimo Rivola expects the 22-year-old to adapt.
With just 14 points scored in 2022, Raúl Fernández’ first season in the premier class did not go as planned.
On the underdeveloped KTM from 2021, more simply wasn’t possible, despite all this being a disappointing rookie season.
Rául Fernández in 2022 – Image provided by Motorsport Images
In 2023, the 22-year-old will make another attempt on the Aprilia RS-GP. Fernández came to MotoGP as the runner-up in Moto2 in 2021.
Aprilia Sporting Director Massimo Rivola has had the young Spaniard on his mind for some time.
The Italian told Speedweek.com: “I went to see Raúl’s family after his first Moto2 race. So I can say that I wanted to sign him for a long time because I think he is a great talent.”
Rivola was not deterred by Fernández’ poor performance. For him, the reasons are clear.
“I don’t think he showed his talent at KTM, for several reasons. I think our bike will suit him better because of his style.”
But despite the advance praise, the Aprilia Sporting Director wants to see change.
“Even if you are a super talent, you have to adapt to what you have. He hasn’t shown that so far [in MotoGP].”
Unlike KTM’s rider policy, however, Rivola wants to give Fernández more time in search of his MotoGP speed.
“He is very young, he has time. I think the other three – Aleix Espargaró, Maverick Viñales, and Miguel Oliveira – will be very fast.”
“So he will have a good example next to him,” the Italian hopes. He underlines: “We believe in him and RNF believes in him a lot.”
