In a twist nobody quite saw coming, Alvaro Bautista, the two-time World Superbike champ, could be rolling back into the MotoGP paddock in 2026. After Ducati announced they’re parting ways with Bautista at the end of the 2025 WorldSBK season, the Spanish ace finds himself exploring every possible path—including swapping leathers for a MotoGP test rider role.
Bautista’s journey with Ducati had plenty of highs (and a few lows), but with the team not picking up his contract for 2026, he’s now on the market. Even with zero wins so far in 2025, the veteran insists he feels strong, sharp, and is hunting for a competitive ride. His priority? Finding a seat in WorldSBK, but the reality is this: No firm offers are on the table just yet.
That’s where MotoGP enters the mix. Bautista and his management have reportedly reached out to Aprilia, offering up his services as a test rider. Aprilia currently only has one official tester, so doubling up makes sense—especially with MotoGP set to switch to Pirelli tyres soon. Bautista’s experience with those tyres in WorldSBK could be a handy asset for any factory squad.
Speaking candidly at the latest WorldSBK round, Bautista admitted the MotoGP test gig is on his radar if nothing else pans out. “If I don’t find space in the Superbike paddock, I should make alternative evaluations,” he told the press. The ball’s in the manufacturers’ court now, but it’s clear Bautista isn’t ready to hang up his helmet—whatever the discipline.
So, will fans see #19 back in MotoGP, turning laps as a super-quick guinea pig and maybe even getting a wildcard or two? If nothing else, you can bet he’s keeping all options wide open for 2026.
