Tech3 sticks with KTM for MotoGP's 850cc era after Honda talks

Tech3 has signed a new contract with KTM that will keep the squad aligned with the Austrian manufacturer into MotoGP’s new 850cc era from 2027.

The deal was announced by Tech3’s new CEO Guenther Steiner in Barcelona on Saturday following qualifying for this weekend’s Catalan Grand Prix.

The exact length of the agreement was not revealed, but it commits Tech3 to KTM for the foreseeable future after speculation linking it with a switch to Honda.

Earlier this year, Honda stated its intention to expand its MotoGP programme to six bikes from 2027, and Tech3 was seen as the most likely option for a second satellite team alongside incumbent LCR.

However, after months of discussions, the team’s new management led by Steiner and team principal Richard Coleman ultimately decided to remain with KTM ahead of sweeping changes to MotoGP’s technical regulations next year.

Guenther Steiner, Tech3 CEO, said: “In motorsport, the strongest partnerships are often the ones you already know inside out. With KTM and Tech3, we’re not starting from zero. 

“Thanks to all the work by Herve Poncharal and the team over the past few years we have a solid foundation with KTM, and that gives us a real advantage as we head into a completely new regulatory era. 

Guenther Steiner, Tech3

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“For both sides, this is about building on what already works. That continuity puts us in the best possible position to adapt quickly and stay competitive when the new rules come in.”

“We’re very pleased to continue our journey together with Tech3. This year marks a new chapter for the team, in line with the dynamic growth of MotoGP,” Pit Beirer, KTM motorsports director, added.

“We’ve aligned our strategy and ambitions, and we’re heading into the future with real excitement to keep pushing and making a difference in this championship. 

“A special thanks to Guenther Steiner and the entire Tech3 Team for their loyal commitment and passion for this project. That dedication is a key part of our strength as a group. 

“There is strong belief in the factory, and together we look at 2027 and beyond with full focus and the clear objective to compete at the very highest level.”

Tech’s relationship with KTM began in 2019 when it became the Austrian manufacturer’s first satellite team in the premier class. The deal allowed KTM to expand its presence on the grid to four bikes and create a pathway for young riders to learn the trade in a lower-pressure environment. 

Race winner Miguel Oliveira, Red Bull KTM Tech 3

Photo by: Gold and Goose Photography / LAT Images / via Getty Images

Pedro Acosta is the most high-profile rider to graduate to the factory KTM team after racing for Tech3, while Miguel Oliveira also spent two years at Tech3 in 2019-20 before being promoted by the Austrian manufacturer. 

Tech3’s partnership with KTM has so far yielded two victories, both achieved by Oliveira in 2020, as well as several other podium finishes.

Retaining Tech3 was of strategic importance to KTM, which itself underwent a major ownership change last year after Bajaj Auto took over full control of the cash-strapped company.

Tech3 was founded by Herve Poncharal, together with Guy Coulon and Bernard Martignac, in 1990. The team enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Yamaha, pre-dating its set-up to the premier class in 2001, before it joined forces with KTM in 2019.

Poncharal vacated his role at the end of last year following the team's sale to a consortium led by Steiner.