Tech3 confirmed at the Catalan MotoGP that it will remain partnered with KTM into MotoGP’s new 850cc/Pirelli era beginning in 2027, ending speculation the French-based squad would switch to Honda. The team announced a new multi-year agreement, the length of which was not disclosed, that commits Tech3 to KTM for the foreseeable future. Guenther Steiner, Tech3’s CEO and the leader of the consortium that acquired the team earlier in 2026, announced the deal in Barcelona after qualifying for the Catalan Grand Prix. Steiner and team principal Richard Coleman said the decision followed months of discussions under the new management. Steiner said, “in motorsport the strongest links are often those you already know inside out.”

Tech3 credited Hervé Poncharal and existing staff for building the foundation that made the extension possible, and noted continuity with KTM, a partner since 2019, will help the squad adapt quickly to the regulatory and technical reset in 2027.

KTM framed the deal as a continuation of an established factory relationship, describing Tech3 as a key extension of its factory effort with technical and operational support aligned to the works team. KTM motorsports director Pit Beirer said the factory was pleased to extend the relationship and that both parties will focus on competing “at the very highest level” from 2027 and beyond. Beirer also told reporters in Catalunya that KTM “will also definitely fight for them” and that KTM and Tech3 are “stronger together.” The announcement did not name Tech3’s riders or a title sponsor for 2027. Sources noted that Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales are contracted directly to KTM with options for 2027 and that KTM is waiting to finalize the team’s machinery deal before confirming those riders’ futures. There is ongoing speculation over Red Bull’s future backing of all four KTM RC16 machines, and the five MotoGP manufacturers are still negotiating a next five-year commercial contract with MotoGP SEG, a matter that could influence sponsorship and factory commitments going into the 850cc era.