Tech3 Yamaha plans all-rookie 2017 MotoGP line-up after KTM moves

The Spaniard announced on the eve of his home race last weekend that he will follow his current Tech3 team-mate Bradley Smith to KTM's new MotoGP project next year.

Tech3 boss Herve Poncharal has signed Moto2 rider Jonas Folger to replace Smith, but wanted to keep Espargaro, who is currently sixth in the standings and made his MotoGP debut with the team in 2014.

However, Poncharal is now likely to hire a second Moto2 rider to complete his line-up, with points leader Alex Rins and reigning champion Johann Zarco the leading candidates.

Rins is believed to be close to securing the second factory Suzuki seat, while Suzuki has an option on Zarco, but that now appears to hinge on whether it strikes a deal to supply satellite team LCR.

"There are not too many names left," Poncharal said.

"If we are saying we want to get young riders instead of an established MotoGP rider, I think right now the two best profile available candidates for us are Alex Rins and Johann Zarco.

"We are talking to both at the moment."

Rins shares a personal sponsorship with Tech3's title sponsor Monster, but has expressed his desire to enter MotoGP with a factory team, suggesting he could spend another season in Moto2 if that opportunity does not arise.

Poncharal did not rule out taking an experienced rider but when the notion of Cal Crutchlow returning to the team if he is squeezed out of LCR was flagged, he reiterated Tech3's standing as Yamaha's junior team.

"Clearly either we go for a young - and I mean young - inexperienced Moto2 rider, which is going to be a question mark," Poncharal said.

"We will see - it could be good, it could be a disaster and difficult.

"Or go for an established MotoGP rider like the one mentioned, Cal, although we cannot be called a rookie team anymore.

"I think it doesn't make sense to take someone who's been with us like Cal.

"I love Cal and he knows that, but we did three years together, he's done three years with different brands and what is the story to see him back here?

"We are here to prepare the future, to work on something exciting."

2017 MOTOGP GRID SO FAR
Yamaha: Valentino Rossi, Maverick Vinales
Honda: Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa
Ducati: Jorge Lorenzo, Andrea Dovizioso
Suzuki: Andrea Iannone, TBC
KTM: Bradley Smith, Pol Espargaro
Aprilia: Sam Lowes, TBC
Tech3 Yamaha: Jonas Folger, TBC
LCR Honda: Cal Crutchlow

Yet to announce riders: Marc VDS, Pramac Ducati, Avintia Ducati, Aspar Ducati