KTM has secured the green light from rival MotoGP manufacturers to open the sealed engines of its RC16 bikes a week before the Aragon Grand Prix.
Approval comes through MSMA and IRTA channels
In mid‑July, KTM formally requested the remaining teams—via the MSMA and IRTA—to permit the removal of a malfunctioning component that forces its machines to stop. The goal: replace the part safely and seal the engine again.
Initial skepticism passed to unified consent
Sporting director Pit Beirer noted that Aprilia was the lone supporter until the summer break, when all competitors lifted their objections, citing rider safety concerns.
Engine opening scheduled for Aragon
During the week before the Spanish race, KTM’s crew will work under the supervision of an IRTA official who will verify the part replacement and reseal the unit, ensuring compliance with technical regulations.
Concession system restricts engine usage
As a Group C rider under the concession framework, each KTM rider receives eight engines for the season. These units must remain sealed unless approved, and any opening triggers strict procedural oversight.
Strategic benefit: avoid pit‑lane penalties
Re‑opening an engine prevents the need to introduce a new unit, which would force a start from the pit lane on each engine change and consume one of the limited eight engines.
Performance impact and the next steps
Throughout the season, KTM has limited revs across all power units to curb the fault that has plagued Pedro Acosta, even causing a major crash at Barcelona. The engine‑opening plan intends to restore full power and reliability from Aragon onward, assuming the corrective work succeeds.
Should the replacement prove effective, Acosta will arrive at the Spanish circuit with a fully adjusted engine capable of competing at maximum performance.
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