Luca Marini is set to depart from Honda and join Tech3 KTM for the 2027‑28 MotoGP seasons, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
Tech3 KTM Seals Five‑Year Pact with Marini
The ownership change at Tech3, now led by Guenther Steiner, means the satellite will negotiate and fund rider contracts independently from 2027. Yet, the rider list still requires KTM approval before the alliance moves forward.
After an initial approach by Marini’s agent at the Italian Grand Prix, a subsequent meeting with KTM Motorsport chief Pit Beirer in June clinched the agreement. The Italian’s performance convinced the partnership that he is a strategic fit for the transition.
From VR46 to Honda: Marini’s Trajectory
Marini, a product of the VR46 Riders Academy and half‑brother to Valentino Rossi, stepped into the world championship with a Moto2 debut in 2016. Over five seasons he collected six victories, 15 podiums, and finished as runner‑up in 2020.
He ascended to MotoGP in 2021 with Ducati’s satellite, VR46, over three years he scored two podiums—second place in Austin and third in Qatar—still the pinnacle of his MotoGP outings.
In 2024, Marini moved to the factory Honda team, replacing Marc Marquez who joined Gresini Ducati. His best recent finishes include two fifth places at the 2025 Hungarian round, 2026 Hungarian round, and 2025 Indonesian GP.
The Teammate Question: Senna Agius Surfaces
Tech3 has yet to announce Marini’s second rider for the 2027 season, but internal indications point to Australian Senna Agius. The 21‑year‑old currently rides Moto2, sitting third in the standings with 61.5 points shy of champion Manu Gonzalez.
Gonzalez, despite a strong campaign, appears to have been ruled out of the discussion as the team finalised its lineup.
Strategic Implications for KTM and Tech3
KTM’s continued technical support, coupled with Tech3’s new financial model, reflects a shift in how satellite programmes operate. While the team will shoulder rider salaries, the approval layer ensures alignment with KTM’s brand strategy and performance objectives.
Marini’s signature brings veteran skill and recent factory experience, positioning Tech3 as a more competitive participant in the forthcoming seasons.
Looking Ahead: 2027‑28 MotoGP Landscape
With Marini on board and a promising teammate set to join, Tech3 KTM is positioning itself as a formidable contender. Their combined expertise may well disrupt the status quo of the premier class across the 2027‑28 seasons.
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