KTM has confirmed that Tech 3 run a pair of the firm’s RC16’s in MotoGP next year, both of which will be equal to those of the factory team.
Since returning full-time last year KTM has been keen for another team to run their RC16’s in order to aid development.
Tech 3 team boss Herve Poncharal confirmed late last week that the new the partnership would be for three seasons, although he didn’t disclose who the alliance would be with at the time.
Tech 3 announced last month that they were to part ways with current partners Yamaha after 2018, with rumours circulating soon after that the French team had secured a satellite deal with either KTM or Suzuki.
Tech 3 has run Yamaha machinery ever since their debut in MotoGP for the 2001 season, although were known to be unhappy with the support the Japanese factory supplied in regards to equal equipment for 2017 stand-out Johan Zarco.
Riders for the new project will be finalized later in the year, although it is likely that at least one of KTM’s Moto2 riders, Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder, will be part of the line-up.
“We are very happy to join forces with Tech 3 in MotoGP from 2019,” KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer said of the new partnership.
“”The team has many years of experience and achieved a lot of great results in this championship. Their professional structure will make us even stronger.
“Having four KTM RC16 on the grid is also another big step for us, both for the development of our MotoGP bike and expanding KTM’s structure in the paddock.
“From the Red Bull Rookies Cup up to MotoGP, there is a clear path to the top. We are looking forward to start a great cooperation and I’m thankful towards Hervé Poncharal for the future trust in KTM.”
