Massimo Rivola 'doesn't understand' the delay to the new injured rider rule proposal.

Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola has revealed that all but one MotoGP manufacturer supports their suggested new rule change.

The Italian manufacturer has proposed that injured riders should be allowed to complete a private test before returning to racing.

The current MotoGP concession rules allow Yamaha and Honda to have unrestricted private testing. However, Ducati, KTM and Aprilia are only permitted to test at official MotoGP sessions.

Aprilia suggested that a new rule would allow a one-day private test for any rider who missed multiple races due to injury.

The idea for this new rule has come to mind for Aprilia after Jorge Martin missed the opening two Grands Prix weekends and only completed 13 laps during pre-season testing.

What Rivola has said about the new rule suggestion?

Speaking to Dorna’s Jack Appleyard in Argentina, Rivola confirmed that a request for the rule change has been submitted, but will require unanimous approval to be introduced mid-season.

“I don't know if that meeting [at COTA] is on for that purpose, but yes, we did the request,” Rivola said.

“In principle, the idea was to offer a one-day test to a rider that stays away from many races. I think it should be valid for any kind of case.

"I'm sorry for the riders that we didn’t do this for in the past - their teams should have got the idea! But I think it's a fair thing to do, because on Friday when you come back, it’s already qualifying.

“Honestly, I think if the idea is good, it’s not only good from next year. I understand that everybody agrees on that - apart from one.

"We need unanimity for a rule change during the season. If we don’t get it, I think we lose an opportunity to do something good for the sport and rider safety. 

"But if that is not the case, too bad.”

Who is against the rule change?

Ducati have stated that they would support the rule change, but only if it started in 2026, and not in the middle of 2025.

Rivola was asked why he thinks Ducati would be against an immediate rule change.

“I really don't understand, honestly," Rivola explained.

“I cannot say that Jorge is a threat to Ducati for the championship - he’s clearly out. For me, it’s just about doing something good for the championship.

"Let’s say he tries in FP1 and doesn’t feel good. Then we have one less bike for the whole weekend. So, as I said, I’m sorry for the riders that we didn’t do this for in the past.

“But I didn’t have that idea before because it was not my rider, or I was not there. So, sorry for them.”