Sterlacchini Set to Commence Role as Aprilia Technical Director in Malaysia

Fabiano Sterlacchini will officially begin his position as Technical Director at Aprilia Racing next week during the 2024 MotoGP event in Malaysia. His appointment follows the impending departure of current technical chief Romano Albesiano. Sterlacchini’s background includes significant experience at KTM and Ducati, positioning him to lead Aprilia into a new competitive era alongside an updated rider lineup.

Fabiano Sterlacchini is set to commence his new role as Technical Director at Aprilia Racing next week, following his departure from KTM. His inaugural appearance with the team will occur during the penultimate round of the 2024 MotoGP season in Malaysia. Earlier this month, Aprilia Racing announced Sterlacchini’s appointment, succeeding Romano Albesiano, who will transition to Honda next season. Although Albesiano will remain with Aprilia to fulfill his commitments through the end of the 2024 MotoGP season, he has agreed to allow Sterlacchini to begin acclimating in Malaysia before the final event in Valencia. A statement from the team noted: “Fabiano will be with us in Malaysia in an observer role, to take notes and start working for the future. [Albesiano] will remain in the Aprilia garage until Sunday in Valencia.” Albesiano’s absence during the Thailand Grand Prix prompted remarks from Aprilia Racing rider Maverick Vinales, who expressed confidence in the team’s operations: “The truth is that I haven’t noticed anything strange. We are always looking for every last screw to make the bike work at 120 percent.” He further acknowledged Albesiano’s unwavering commitment, stating that Roman’s dedication to the team’s development remains intact despite the announcement of his departure. Sterlacchini’s arrival marks the beginning of a pivotal transition for Aprilia as the team prepares for next season, which will feature a revamped rider lineup, including current MotoGP championship leader Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi, both transferring from Ducati. Vinales will shift to the Tech3 KTM squad, while Aleix Espargaro will take on a role as a test rider with Honda after retiring from competitive racing. Prior to joining Aprilia, Sterlacchini briefly led KTM’s engineering department after starting with the brand in June 2021. His contract was not renewed earlier this year. Notably, Sterlacchini has an extensive background, having spent 17 years at Ducati, eventually becoming its MotoGP Technical Director.

The article discusses the recent appointment of Fabiano Sterlacchini as the Technical Director for Aprilia Racing in preparation for the upcoming 2024 MotoGP season. This transition comes at a crucial time as the team navigates major changes, including the departure of existing Technical Chief Romano Albesiano to Honda. The backdrop includes Sterlacchini’s previous stints at KTM and Ducati, positioning him as a seasoned professional ready to lead Aprilia into a new era with a fresh rider lineup.

In summary, Fabiano Sterlacchini is poised to take on the role of Technical Director at Aprilia Racing, beginning his tenure in Malaysia at the forthcoming MotoGP event. His arrival signals a strategic shift for the team, which is preparing for a new lineup and navigating operational changes as Romano Albesiano transitions to Honda. The commitment of both Sterlacchini and Vinales to enhance the team’s performance highlights a dedicated approach to achieving success in the coming season.

Original Source: www.autosport.com