KTM Fortifies MotoGP Lineup with Bastianini and Viñales for 2025

KTM has officially secured two highly talented riders, Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales, for its satellite team Tech3 for the 2025 season. Both riders have inked multi-year contracts, signalling KTM's commitment to fielding a formidable lineup with full factory support and the latest 2025-spec RC16 machinery.

The addition of Bastianini to Tech3 comes as no surprise, as his manager, Carlo Pernat, had been dropping hints about a potential move since Bastianini became the third choice for a factory Ducati ride behind eight-time world champion Marc Marquez and current championship leader Jorge Martin, with Marquez ultimately being chosen in a historic blockbuster move.

Viñales' switch to KTM, however, is considered unexpected due to his close race-winning association with Aprilia since leaving Yamaha in 2021. This move likely follows Aprilia's acquisition of Jorge Martin, who will assume the role of team leader at the Italian outfit.

Tech3 will revert to the iconic KTM orange color scheme after two seasons under the GasGas brand. This rebranding is part of KTM's effort to emphasize the factory-backed status of the team. Pit Beirer, KTM's Head of Motorsport, expressed enthusiasm about the new signings, highlighting their roles in enhancing the team's performance and reputation.

Bastianini, the 2020 Moto2 World Champion, has already made a strong impression in the premier class, securing five MotoGP wins and 12 podiums in his three seasons so far. The 'Beast,' renowned for his blistering late-race pace, is firmly in world title contention alongside the likes of Martin, Bagnaia, and Marquez, and is expected to add more accolades to his tally this season.

On the other hand, Viñales, KTM's second Moto3 World Champion in 2013, brings significant experience and talent to the table, boasting 10 MotoGP wins and 35 podiums. Both riders will join Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta,  KTM's factory team riders starting in 2025.

This announcement means current KTM factory rider Jack Miller may transition to Ducati's World Superbike team if reigning champion Alvaro Bautista retires. Additionally, there appears to be no place for Augusto Fernandez, the 2022 Moto2 world champion, within the KTM ranks next year, as he has struggled to match the performance of his rookie teammate Acosta.