There is a perpetuous stream of personnel flowing from one form of motorsport to another. It is the case of Massimo Rivola, who made the switch to MotoGP after spending 21 years in Formula 1. The Italian has been officially announced by Aprilia as their new CEO, in charge from January 7th.

Ferrari’s former sporting director and head of their Driver Academy will be corroborating the Aprilia management outfit, as the official statement says. "The appointment of Rivola, who brings to MotoGP the vast experience accumulated in Formula 1, is another important step in the path of consolidating the Noale racing department and conformation of the Piaggio Group's commitment to growing the MotoGP project".

Having worked at Minardi, Toro Rosso and Ferrari made Rivola one of the finest personalities on the Italian as well as the international motorsport scene. His experience and credibility brought him to a completely different environment, where an ambitious plan for the future is currently under construction.

Next year the Italian team will field Andrea Iannone, coming from Suzuki and replacing Scott Redding, and Aleix Espargaro. The arrival of Bradley Smith as test rider, alongside the acquisition of Antonio Jimenez and Fabrizio Cecchini will be an additional value to the team, which is committed to grow and climb the standings.