KTM is preparing for 2027: Pol Espargaro tests the 850cc engine at Jerez (VIDEO)

KTM wants to stay in MotoGP beyond 2026, but investors are needed: in the meantime, Pol Espargaro tests the bike with the 850 engine.

KTM’s future in racing, particularly in MotoGP, is full of doubts and it’s hard to say today what will happen. In 2026 the Austrian brand will regularly be on the grid, after that it’s unclear. Even though Pit Beirer and Gottfried Neumeister are confident there won’t be any problems, it’s crucial to find investors to support the project. The new Indian ownership, Bajaj Auto, doesn’t seem inclined to fully cover the costs required to be a competitive presence in the World Championship. A strong partner is needed, also because it’s not certain that Red Bull wants to continue the current partnership.

The contract with Dorna expires at the end of 2026 and there are ongoing negotiations involving all manufacturers, who in the meantime are also working on the 2027 technical project. There will be new regulations with changes mainly concerning the engine and aerodynamics.

As is known, in MotoGP the engines will have a displacement of 850cc instead of 1000cc. Despite doubts about the future, KTM is anything but idle. In early October, it released a video where you could hear the roar of the new engine built with 2027 in mind. A sign that the Mattighofen manufacturer is committed to remaining present in the top class.

In recent hours a new video has been published showing test rider Pol Espargaro riding a KTM prototype with an 850cc engine during a private test at Jerez de la Frontera. The Spanish rider commented: "Hear that? The future just fired up. Our 850cc is alive and ready to race in 2027."

The Mattighofen brand is the first in MotoGP to show that it has tested an initial prototype with a view to 2027, a year in which there will also be a new sole tire supplier (Pirelli will replace Michelin). It’s not known how many laps were completed at the Jerez circuit or what the feedback was. Clearly, the competition isn’t standing still, and in the coming weeks or months other brands will also publish something. KTM moved first, but they’re also the ones who currently need to attract investors to secure a strong future.

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