KTM Gets Approval to Replace Faulty RC16 Component

KTM received a boost ahead of the British Grand Prix. The Austrian manufacturer finally obtained permission from other MotoGP manufacturers to open its sealed RC16 engines and replace a faulty component that has caused multiple technical issues this season.

The official request was filed in mid-July through MSMA and IRTA. MotoGP regulations prohibit engines from being opened or modified during the season without unanimous consent from other manufacturers. Initially, only Aprilia supported the request, so it was rejected. However, during the summer break, the situation changed. For rider safety, Ducati, Yamaha, and Honda eventually agreed.

“We confirm that we have received the necessary approval to carry out corrective measures regarding the technical issue,” said KTM in a statement on Thursday ahead of the British GP. “Our goal is to implement these measures as soon as possible. This weekend at Silverstone, we will continue with temporary solutions.”

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KTM competes in 2026 under concession rules in Group C, allowing eight engines per rider for the full season. These engines are sealed after homologation and can only be opened under the supervision of a championship technical official. The replacement work is scheduled for the week before the Aragon GP, the 13th round of the season. During the procedure, an IRTA technical official will ensure only the faulty part is replaced, then the engine is resealed.

This solution means KTM doesn't have to use additional engines. That avoids starting from pit lane, the penalty for exceeding the allowed engine count. The issue has occurred multiple times this season, notably with Pedro Acosta. The Spaniard suffered a sudden engine failure in Barcelona, resulting in a heavy crash involving Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio.

To prevent further incidents, KTM has limited the maximum revs of all available engines. This temporary measure was expected to hurt RC16 performance. Once the modified engines are used from Aragon, KTM hopes to regain full performance, provided the technical fix permanently solves the problem.