KTM seeks stability while Yamaha eyes fresh riders for MotoGP future

KTM team manager Aki Ajo said the factory must be content with its 2026 MotoGP podiums but emphasised the need to regain consistency and stability. He highlighted rider Pedro Acosta’s strong results, including a sprint win in Thailand and podiums at Buriram, Circuit of the Americas and Balaton Park, while noting the struggles of Brad Binder and Maverick Vinales. Ajo credited recent aerodynamic upgrades and technical work that began in late 2025 as the basis for the season’s early promise, and he called for a steadier package to contend at the front.

Yamaha team director Massimo Meregalli acknowledged that the new engine design introduced for 2026 has not yet solved the team’s performance challenges. He expressed optimism that the 2027 season, with a new 850 cc formula and fresh rider line‑up, will inject “new air” into the YZR‑M1 project. Yamaha will replace departing riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins with former Aprilia stars Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura, while retaining Toprak Razgatlıoğlu for 2027. Meregalli believes the combination of regulatory changes and new talent will revive Yamaha’s competitiveness.