Ferrari Driver Academy head joins Aprilia

An Aprilia spokesperson confirmed Rivola's move to Autosport, although it is not yet clear how Rivola will fit in with the Gresini-run operation's existing management structure, which is currently headed by Romano Albesiano.

Rivola has run the Ferrari Driver Academy since 2016, when he succeeded Luca Baldisserri, and has overseen Charles Leclerc's progression to a race seat with Ferrari.

Prior to that, the 46-year-old was Ferrari's sporting director, which followed a spell as team manager at Toro Rosso.

Rivola's arrival at Aprilia is the latest in a series of major changes at manufacturer as it seeks to rebound from a disappointing fourth return season in MotoGP.

Andrea Iannone has replaced Scott Redding in the team's 2019 rider line-up alongside Aleix Espargaro, who is working with a new crew chief this year.

Ex-KTM rider Bradley Smith has also been brought in to head up Aprilia's new test team.