KTM commits to MotoGP, sends Husqvarna to Moto3
Austrian marque commits to premier class for five more years after an encouraging start to its MotoGP endeavour; Husqvarna to enter Moto3
KTM has confirmed it has signed a new contract with Dorna that will see it continue competing in MotoGP for a further five years, while Husqvarna will become the firm’s spin-off brand in the feeder Moto3 category.
After experiencing success in Moto3 and Moto2 – as well as trials and rally raid competitions – KTM made the long-awaited step up to the premier MotoGP class in 2017 and has made notable strides in performance since then.
On the weekend of its home Austrian MotoGP, the manufacturer took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the series by extending its deal by five years, in addition to the two remaining on its erstwhile agreement. It comes after KTM doubled its presence on the grid in 2019 to include the satellite Tech 3 Racing outfit.
“We made a proactive decision here at our home grand prix to renew our stay in MotoGP and commit to another five years of competition," said CEO Stefan Pierer. "This is part of a wider strategic view and we now have seven years to rise towards the top of the MotoGP class; the same period of time we needed to conquer the Dakar Rally.
“We know we are firmly on the way and have made good steps in less than three years already."
Husqvarna Moto3 entry confirmed
However,, the firm's focus on MotoGP had come at the expense of its Moto2 effort, which will be would down at the end of the year.
Meanwhile, sister brand Husqvarna will be charged with leading its efforts in Moto3, with a new bike being developed especially for the Swedish-origin brand.
"As part of this outlook we want to boost Moto3: it is the foundation and the base of road racing for us. It is where we began and where we are one of the leading brands.”
“We see a very good opportunity here by bringing back Husqvarna with force; there will be a new bike and a special direction with this project. All of this movement means we will pool our resources and energy and as a consequence we will step out of Moto2.”
Swift progress for MotoGP's newest manufacturer
After scoring a landmark podium in Valencia last year, KTM has become a regular top ten contender this season, particularly in the hands of Pol Espargaro, while Johann Zarco started on the front row of the Czech Republic MotoGP last week.
Meanwhile, Miguel Oliveira gave Tech 3 its best result of the year in Austria with a run to eighth. He will be joined by Brad Binder in the satellite team next year.
