If there is one thing KTM’s MotoGP history has made clear, it is that handling rider relationships has not always been the company’s strongest point. Johann Zarco, Raul Fernandez and Remy Gardner have all endured difficult departures from the Austrian brand after lengthy battles to secure their releases.
After switching from the Aprilia factory to KTM’s satellite Tech3 team for the 2025 season, Vinales now finds himself in a similarly uncertain position. A clause in his contract prevents him from signing with another team until the end of this month. KTM has until then to decide whether to exercise its option to extend his stay at Tech3 for a third season or release him entirely.
