Image: Supplied.

Aprilia Racing has signed Lorenzo Savadori as an official test rider for the 2020 MotoGP World Championship season.

Savadori will play a role in the development of the newly-introduced 2020 RS-GP, while also racing in the CIV Italian Championship aboard the Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory.

The Italian was already on the new V4 prototype during the Sepang MotoGP tests, the strong outcome of that test and the big job of development that awaits the new bike were the key elements in the decision taken by Aprilia Racing and Lorenzo in launching their collaboration.

“I am truly very happy to continue racing for Aprilia Racing,” said Savadori. “The role of MotoGP tester lets me get close to this category, which is the maximum expression of world motorcycle racing. I am honoured and pleased to be part of this project.

“I wish to thank all of Aprilia Racing and everyone who made this opportunity possible. Now I can’t wait to get started – the Italian championship will also be at a very high level this season. Along with Nuova M2 Racing, we’ll be working very hard and passionately to hold the new RSV4 Factory 1100 high.”

With Andrea Iannone still provisionally suspended, speculation has linked current test rider Bradley Smith to assume his role in the championship alongside Aleix Espargaro.