Since entering MotoGP in 2017, KTM has enjoyed a notable rise, marked by first victories in 2020, largely thanks to the arrival of Dani Pedrosa as a test rider. However, the Austrian brand’s meteoric progress seems to have slowed down in recent seasons, and it is now struggling to compete with the hegemony of Ducati.
Manuel Pecinocited by Motosan, analyzed this delicate situation and the critical turning point that KTM knew. “ KTM’s situation began to deteriorate when they lost their concessions in 2022. It made them take steps backwards. ” For Pecinothis loss marked a tipping point for the manufacturer, which failed to capitalize on the achievements of previous years. “ Before that, they had an advantage to develop their motorcycle more freely. By losing these privileges, they had to comply with the same rules as established teams like Ducati and Honda, which hampered their progress.. »
To compensate for this loss, KTM sought to surround itself with talent coming directly from its rival
Ducatihoping to replicate their winning model. “ They tried to make KTM a clone of Ducatiby hiring engineers from Borgo Panigale, including one of Gigi Dall’Igna’s right-hand men. But it didn’t work. The investment was colossal, but the results were not there,” continues
Pecino. “ The fact is that KTM is going backwards, and it is a paradox considering the presence of Dani Pedrosa as a test rider. This should have propelled them forward. »
“ In 2025, with these four riders, KTM has a dream team but there will be pressure if these talents do not achieve victories »
Next season, KTM will benefit from the arrival of talented drivers like Enea Bastianini And Maverick Vinaleswho will join Brad Binder And Pedro Acosta. “ With these four riders, KTM has a dream team. » But, as explained Pecino“
they will need to be provided with the tools necessary to perform. There will be pressure if these talents don’t achieve victories. »
The expected departure of the team leader
Francesco Guidotti at the end of the season raises the question of stability within the team. Apparently well informed, Pecino reveals: “ Dani Pedrosa declined offer to become team manager. As for
Aki Ajoalthough he has proven his skills in Moto3 and Moto2, his profile does not really match what KTM is looking for to lead the MotoGP project. » This lack of clarity at the top could harm the ability to KTM to restart.
If KTM now has a considerable strike force with its drivers, the challenge remains to transform this potential power into concrete results on the track. The challenge for the Austrian brand will be to regain a winning dynamic while adapting to the constraints of fierce competition.
