Álvaro Bautista has no place in the WSBK 2027 for now. After months waiting for a possible renewal with Barni, the Spanish rider will not continue in the Italian structure next season. This was reported by Marco Barnabo’s team, which had already confirmed Yari Montella some time ago.
This situation leaves Bautista’s future in WSBK and in competition up in the air. Although this season has been especially complicated for the Spaniard, we must not forget that the double WSBK champion finished last season in third position, and it was this year when everything has been complicated, especially not being in the factory team. Even so, his titles, his 63 victories (more than anyone else on the current grid) and his 129 podiums so far are an endorsement that he can finally get a place.
Even so, the situation is complex for Bautista, who before the French round acknowledged that he did not want to retire and that he was looking for options that would allow him to remain active. And although this year’s numbers are not working in his favor, the truth is that where the Talaveran is suffering the most is at the start of the races, with more extra weight.
Since the new regulations came into force with the joint weight of motorcycle and rider, the little man from La Mancha has been the one who has suffered the most with this measure that is significantly detrimental. This situation also makes it more complicated for competitive teams to consider having Bautista.
Bautista leaves Barni, but Vierge takes his place
Shortly after the Italian team confirmed Bautista’s departure, confirmation of the signing of Xavi Vierge arrived. The Spanish rider will leave Yamaha after a single season and will face his sixth year in the championship, with a motorcycle much more competitive than the CBR1000RR-R of his first four seasons and also than the Yamaha R1 of this one with which, until now, he only has a sixth place as his best result.
In a certain way and bridging the gap by being in a private team, it is expected that Vierge can take a leap forward in competitiveness like Iker Lecuona did, who was his teammate at HRC for the four years they were with the Japanese brand. Now we will have to see what performance it achieves with a motorcycle that, although it looks similar, is not the official one.
Xavi Vierge: “I am very happy to join the Barni Racing Team, a team with a lot of history and passion for this sport. In recent years they have shown an incredible level, constantly competing with the best. Therefore, although I had different options, I was clear that it was the right choice. I really want to start working, adapt to the bike, enjoy and strive to achieve our goals. I want to thank the team and the sponsors for trusting me. I will give everything to return that trust with great results.”
Marco Barnabo: “We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Xavi Vierge for the 2027 season. We immediately found common ground regarding our objectives and priorities, sharing from the beginning a clear vision of what we want to achieve together. We are prepared to undertake this new adventure with a lot of motivation and determination.”
