Aki Ajo says KTM is highly enthusiastic about its factory rider line-up for MotoGP 2027 after choosing Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio to lead its project into the new 850cc era.
The pair will replace Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder at Red Bull KTM Factory Racing after the 2026 season. The changes form part of a major transition ahead of MotoGP’s new technical regulations, with every manufacturer required to develop a new package around the 850cc engine formula.
“We all know that there is a lot of development for everyone happening with the new rules with 850cc bikes – many areas are changing for next year,” Ajo told MotoGP.com.
Ajo explained that the technical transition has coincided with significant movement in the rider market. KTM had already been considering its future rider choices since the previous summer, with the process continuing through the winter period.
“I would say that we are really enthusiastic and of course also really pleased and happy about our choices,” Ajo said. The Marquez-Di Giannantonio combination will therefore take KTM into the 2027 regulations with two new factory riders after the current Acosta-Binder partnership concludes at the end of this season.
Despite preparations for 2027 already being under way, Ajo stressed that KTM’s immediate priority remains the second half of the 2026 campaign. The team intends to continue developing the project with Acosta and Binder in the factory squad, while Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini remain part of KTM’s strength on the other side of the programme.
With its 2027 rider line-up now settled, KTM has established an important part of its foundation for MotoGP’s next technical era. Before the 850cc regulations arrive, however, Ajo insists that maximising progress through the remainder of 2026 remains the project’s primary target.
Read Also
Guenther Steiner compared Marc Marquez to Lewis Hamilton ahead of the 2026 British MotoGP, highlighting their speed and ability to manage their image.
Marc Marquez returned to training at MotorLand Aragon on 31 July 2026 as he prepares for MotoGP's post-summer return at Silverstone.
The 2027 Thai MotoGP will again open the season at Buriram for a third consecutive year and launch the championship's new technical era.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!