The real key gear in the MotoGP Rider Market is not Jorge Martin, an experienced negotiator from inside the paddock.
MotoGP champion Martin wants to quit Aprilia despite previous injured seasons.
However, the questions surrounding whether Martin can free himself from his Aprilia trade, and the place he goes is secondary compared to circumstances elsewhere, Carlo Pernat argues.
The experienced rider manager told Mow Mag.
“It will be the whole KTM incident. It is possible to actually talk about the market as the whole grid can really revolutionize, only if the future of KTM is understood.
“If KTM stays on MotoGP with four bikes in 2026, it’s pretty much unchanged, but as it looks, if KTM stays on two bikes and the Tech3 ends with Honda, it’s going to be a great dance in the saddle and seating.
Maverick Vinals
“As far as I know, Herbe’s Pontcharal has been a bit tired of it over the years and has important investors interested in his team, but his two riders, Maverick Venares and Enia Bastianini, have signed a direct deal with KTM, just like factory riders Pedro Acosta and Bloodbinder.
“In this scenario, we understand that KTM creates a market because everything depends on what happens there.”
Acosta is the crown jewel of KTM, and he is deeply connected to movement elsewhere.
Honda’s factory team and VR46 Ducati team have been appointed as stakeholders for Acosta.
However, he is tied to a deal with KTM that continues until the end of 2026, with Spanish media claiming he will remain next year.
That’s why, despite Acosta warning KTM, he will not have the patience in his quest to become a MotoGP champion.
Tech3 is intended to stay within the KTM Stable, but the manufacturer’s non-racing money struggles have created the rumored factory.
Pernat believes that fallout from it could become unexpectedly available to some coveted riders.