KTM withdraws from Moto2, Husqvarna returns to Moto3
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KTM will focus on the premier MotoGP grand prix class in 2020, leaving Moto2 while rebranding its Moto3 factory efforts under the Husqvarna name.The Austrian manufacturer has announced it will cancel its troubled Moto2 efforts, which has endured a tricky 2019 with setup after the class switched to Triumph engines, while in Moto3 its bikes will be rebranded under the sister Husqvarna squad.KTM previously ran some of its Moto3 bikes as Husqvarna in 2014 and 2015, taking podiums with Danny Kent, with KTM confirming its intention to produce an all-new Husqvarna bike for 2020.It is not yet clear if some teams will continue to enter KTM-branded Moto3 bikes alongside the new Husqvarna entries next season.As part of its structure overhaul, the KTM Moto2 efforts will conclude at the end of 2019 with the Austrian brand keen to “keep the close relationship with Aki Ajo’s team as the crucial stepping-stone for Red Bull KTM in MotoGP”.Ajo currently runs the factory KTM Moto2 squad and won back-to-back Moto2 world titles with Johann Zarco on a Kalex chassis in 2015 and 2016.The shake-up has allowed KTM to focus its efforts in MotoGP, with the Austrian manufacturer signing a new five-year deal to stay in the premier class.“We made a proactive decision here at our home grand prix to renew our stay in MotoGP and commit to another five years of competition,” KTM AG CEO Stefan Pierer explained.“This is part of a wider strategic view and we now have seven years to rise towards the top of the MotoGP class; the same period of time we needed to conquer the Dakar Rally.“We know we are firmly on the way and have made good steps in less than three years already.“As part of this outlook we want to boost Moto3: it is the foundation and the base of road racing for us. It is where we began and where we are one of the leading brands.“We see a very good opportunity here by bringing back Husqvarna with force; there will be a new bike and a special direction with this project. All of this movement means we will pool our resources and energy and as a consequence we will step out of Moto2.”
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