Yamaha signs Moto3 deal to replace KTM and Honda
Yamaha will become the exclusive engine supplier for Moto3 in 2028, replacing KTM and Honda in the process.
The Moto3 class will undergo major changes from 2028 with Yamaha set to replace KTM and Honda as the exclusive engine supplier until 2033.
Yamaha was heavily linked with a takeover of the class in recent months, and the new partnership was confirmed as part of a special press conference ahead of this weekend’s Dutch MotoGP at Assen.
The new deal is all about creating a pathway for future Grand Prix riders, while also reducing the capacity gap between Moto3 and the Moto2 class, which uses single-spec 765cc Triumph engines, although chassis designs are currently open to more than one make, and are provided by Kalex, Boscoscuro and Forward.
At the heart of the new project is a racing prototype that’s been developed by Yamaha, based on its CP2 production platform. It has been extensively re-engineered for Grand Prix competition.
Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer of MotoGP, said this about the new agreement with Yamaha:
"We’re really proud to unveil the future of Moto3, not just for the World Championship but also for its importance to grassroots programs globally. MotoGP is committed to growing the sport of motorcycling, supporting talent, and increasing accessibility in order to create the safest sport possible with the biggest audience.
“With this project, we are working with Yamaha to create a global platform for young riders more than simply announcing which bike they’ll ride. We believe this change will do a lot for the sport, both outside the paddock in global terms, and here within MotoGP.”
The new project will also aim to support rider development through a wide range of activities beyond the Moto3 class. From 2029, the Moto3 Junior World Championship is expected to adopt a slightly lower-spec version of the same machine used in Moto3. MotoGP also says that “discussions are already underway with additional regional championships interested in joining the same platform”.
Additional project updates will take place alongside prototype testing later this year, as well as the official unveiling of the 2028 Yamaha-powered Moto3 bikes.
Speaking about the future of Moto3, Ezpeleta added:
"Moto3 has a key role to play in our future. In sporting terms, it’s most often the first professional step of racing for riders who go on to become the global superstars. For fans, it’s an introduction to those stars of the future and a fantastic part of every Grand Prix weekend. Our structure – with three Grand Prix classes at every event, including Moto2 and Moto3 – creates a unique fan experience.
“Great action, pure talent, and engineering excellence are all on display from the start of a Grand Prix to the final flag. This new era for Moto3 is designed to deliver more of each and better position the competition as the entry level class in the MotoGP World Championship. This will be a fresh platform for talent and performance to shine.”
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
