RACING: Tech3 joins KTM MotoGP stable
The open secret is official – Tech3 will be the Austrian brand's satellite outfit from 2019, which means there will be four KTMs on the gridKTM’s footprint on the MotoGP title will increase by 50 per cent in 2019 with news that the French Tech3 squad has been signed to run the brand’s satellite outfit.
The announcement, widely expected after Tech3 boss Hervé Poncharal recently announced he was severing ties with his long-time partner, Yamaha, paves the way for four KTM RC16s to be on the 2019 MotoGP grid.
KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer said: “We are very happy to join forces with Tech3 in MotoGP from 2019. The team has many years of experience and achieved great results in this championship.
“Its professional structure will make us even stronger. Having four KTM RC16 on the grid is also another big step for us, both for the development of our MotoGP bike and expanding KTM’s structure in the paddock.
“From the Red Bull Rookies Cup up to MotoGP there is a clear path to the top. We are looking forward to start a great cooperation and I’m thankful towards Hervé Poncharal for the future trust in KTM.”
Meanwhile, Tech3 still has its 2018 Yamaha-backed MotoGP campaign to focus on, with its No. 1 rider Johann Zarco recently setting the fastest time in the final pre-season test at Losail in Qatar before the championship begins back at the same circuit from March 16-18.
KTM's factory riders in 2018 are Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro.
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