MotoGP: Dani Pedrosa Extends Contract with KTM as Official Test Rider

KTM has extended its partnership with Dani Pedrosa, retaining the experienced rider as the official test rider for the RC16 MotoGP project through the 2025 season. Pedrosa, who joined KTM in 2019 after a distinguished career as a full-time rider, has been a crucial asset to the Austrian manufacturer's MotoGP program. Despite challenges faced by the KTM team in recent seasons, with their last victory occurring at the 2022 Thailand motorcycle Grand Prix, Pedrosa's expertise continues to play a pivotal role in the development of the RC16. His four wildcard appearances since joining KTM as a test rider have showcased the positive impact of his contributions.

As Pedrosa enters his seventh season with KTM, the 39-year-old remains committed to driving the team's testing and R&D efforts. His goal is to help elevate the RC16 to new performance levels and propel the team towards future success.

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Dani Pedrosa said: 'It’s a pleasure to take our journey into another year. We know where we need to make improvements, and the effort of the whole factory has not eased at all in making the best bike for the riders to perform on track. I’m looking forward to what we can do for 2025 and the ideas that will come along.'

KTM Motorsports Director Pit Beirer said: 'This was a straightforward decision for both parties and that’s a good sign of a strong relationship and trust. We really believe in what Dani brings to our MotoGP program on different levels, not only in the saddle of the next generation of the KTM RC16, and this contribution is vital. We know the turnaround we are seeking will come and with Dani as part of the team it will only arrive quicker.'

The Season Finale

The 2024 MotoGP season will culminate in a thrilling championship battle at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Due to damage caused by recent flooding at the Valencia circuit, the final round of the championship has been relocated to the Spanish venue.

The championship race between Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia and Pramac Racing's Jorge Martin is poised to be a nail-biter. With Martin holding a 24-point lead and a maximum of 37 points still up for grabs, the title is far from decided.

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In the Constructors' Championship, Ducati holds a dominant position with 685 points, while KTM trails in second place with 316 points. For the 2025 MotoGP season, KTM has announced its rider lineup. Pedro Acosta will join Brad Binder in the factory team, replacing Jack Miller. Additionally, KTM's satellite team, Red Bull GasGas Tech3 in 2024 season, will undergo a rebrand and field a new lineup featuring Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini.