In the fast-paced world of MotoGP, Hervé Poncharal, owner of the Tech3 team, has clarified the team’s position amid rumors of a potential switch to Honda in 2026. Poncharal confirmed that KTM remains the primary partner, highlighting their ongoing collaboration and contractual ties.
Recent Race Results Highlight Challenges and Opportunities
At the Dutch TT in Assen, KTM’s official riders faced mixed results, with Acosta leading the pack by finishing fourth. Viñales secured fifth place, while Bastianini and Binder finished ninth and eleventh, respectively. These results reveal speed difficulties, especially in qualifying sessions, that the team aims to overcome as the season progresses.
Long-Term Contract with KTM and Strategic Vision
Poncharal detailed a solid five-year agreement with KTM extending through 2026, underscoring Tech3’s commitment to their current partnership. He stressed the shared vision with Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, signaling confidence in the team’s future trajectory. The rumored Honda deal, according to Poncharal, does not reflect their plans.
Financial Restructuring and Staff Changes Affect KTM’s Motorsport Program
KTM is undergoing financial restructuring following insolvency, prompting questions about the stability of its motorsport division. The recent exit of engine designer Kurt Trieb has sparked discussions about potential shifts in the team’s development and R&D efforts, adding uncertainty as they prepare for upcoming seasons.
Tech3 Targets Podium Spots and Improved Qualifying at Sachsenring
As the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team looks ahead to races at challenging circuits like Sachsenring, the focus intensifies on securing podium finishes after a drought in the top three positions. The riders are concentrating on better qualifying times to improve their race-day prospects and maintain momentum into the next season.
Ongoing Evolution of the MotoGP Competitive Landscape
The MotoGP environment continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by shifting alliances, technological advances, and fierce competition. This dynamic context underscores the importance of strategic partnerships, such as the one between Tech3 and KTM, in pursuing success on the world stage.
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We have a five-year deal with KTM until 2026 and remain fully committed to this partnership.
” — Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 Team Owner
“There is a shared vision with Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta that strengthens our collaboration going forward.”
— Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 Team Owner
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. The unfortunate truth is that entertainment attracts more attention than sports, and MotoGP is looking to benefit from this trend. However, MotoGP currently lacks the personalities needed to create engaging drama.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is well-known for being the only person to win World Championships in both motorcycle racing and Formula 1 car racing.
Q. Is MotoGP safer than F1?
A. Since the Moto Grand Prix began, there have been 104 rider fatalities. In contrast, 52 drivers have died in FIA World Championship events or in F1 cars elsewhere.
Q. Is F1 faster than MotoGP?
A. At the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Formula 1 cars can reach a top speed of 205 mph on the back straight. That’s quite fast. However, MotoGP motorcycles can go even quicker, reaching 221 mph. Despite this higher speed, MotoGP bikes complete a lap about 25 seconds slower than Formula 1 cars.
