The 2026 MotoGP colours for Tech3 KTM riders Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini were revealed today in an online event alongside the Factory team. This launch marks a fresh chapter for the French-based outfit as a consortium led by former Formula 1 team manager Guenther Steiner took over ownership from Tech3 founder Herve Poncharal on January 1.
Changes in Management and Team Line-up
Richard Coleman now serves as team principal while Herve Poncharal remains involved as a consultant. Nicolas Goyon continues in his role as team manager, overseeing a roster featuring seasoned MotoGP race winners Vinales and Bastianini, both preparing for their second season aboard the KTM RC16.
Vinales’ Comeback and Performance Boost
Maverick Vinales and his crew chief Manu Cazeaux, having transitioned together from Aprilia, played a key role in reviving KTM’s 2025 campaign. Their efforts nearly culminated in a runner-up finish at Qatar, which was later revoked due to a tyre pressure penalty. Despite a serious shoulder injury at Sachsenring hampering his performance, Vinales expressed confidence in his readiness for the new season and is working with triple MotoGP champion Jorge Lorenzo as his performance coach for 2026.
Bastianini’s Mixed Season and New Partnerships
Enea Bastianini experienced a slower start after his departure from Ducati following Marc Marquez’s arrival. However, he achieved a breakthrough with a Sprint podium at Brno and a Grand Prix podium soon after in Catalunya. Mid-season, Bastianini parted ways with crew chief Alberto Giribuola, who will join Toprak Razgatlioglu and Pramac in 2026. Bastianini will now collaborate with Andres Madrid, previously crew chief to Brad Binder, as he aims to improve qualifying results and overall pace.
Uncertainty Surrounding 2027 Contracts and Equipment
Neither Vinales nor Bastianini have signed contracts for the 2027 MotoGP season, and Tech3 has yet to announce which machinery it will employ moving forward. Speculation hints that Vinales could join the KTM Factory team in 2027 if Pedro Acosta exits. Meanwhile, both riders will debut their new livery at the Sepang test scheduled for February 3-5.
Impact and Future Prospects for Tech3
This transition period represents an important evolution for Tech3 as new ownership and management seek to build on recent successes and address past challenges. With experienced riders like Vinales and Bastianini aiming to deliver stronger results and a refreshed technical team supporting them, Tech3’s trajectory in the fast-approaching 2026 season will be closely watched in the MotoGP paddock.
