KTM secures new MotoGP agreement with Tech3

Guenther Steiner’s Tech3 team will continue to race KTM RC16 machines in MotoGP following a new agreement.

16 May 2026

KTM management with its race teams and RC16 MotoGP bikes.

KTM has secured a new deal with Guenther Steiner’s Tech3 MotoGP team, ending all speculation of a switch to Honda.

Tech3 was linked with the Japanese company as MotoGP gears up for its new 850cc era in 2027. However, it has decided to stay with KTM instead, which in turn will continue to provide Tech3 with full-factory equipment.

The news was confirmed by KTM at the Catalan Grand Prix in Barcelona, again underlining the Austrian manufacturer’s commitment to MotoGP, which had come into question when it was going through its well-documented financial troubles of the last 18 months.

It also marks the second major agreement for Tech3 in 2026, after the team secured new ownership through a consortium led by Steiner.

The Tech3 CEO said this about the new agreement:

“In motorsport, the strongest partnerships are often the ones you already know inside out. With KTM and Tech3, we’re not starting from zero. Thanks to all the work by Hervé Poncharal and the team over the past few years we have a solid foundation with KTM, and that gives us a real advantage as we head into a completely new regulatory era.
“For both sides, this is about building on what already works. That continuity puts us in the best possible position to adapt quickly and stay competitive when the new rules come in.”

What hasn’t been confirmed is Tech3’s rider line-up for the 2027 season, which is no surprise at this stage since the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team has not yet announced its plans either.

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director, added:

“We’re very pleased to continue our journey together with Tech3. This year marks a new chapter for the team, in line with the dynamic growth of MotoGP. We’ve aligned our strategy and ambitions, and we’re heading into the future with real excitement to keep pushing and making a difference in this championship.
“A special thanks to Guenther Steiner and the entire Tech3 Team for their loyal commitment and passion for this project. That dedication is a key part of our strength as a group. There is strong belief in the factory, and together we look at 2027 and beyond with full focus and the clear objective to compete at the very highest level.”