KTM Factory Racing has confirmed the signings of Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio on multi-year contracts starting from the 2027 MotoGP season, the Austrian manufacturer announced on Sunday, 6 July. The double deal marks one of the most significant rider acquisitions in the paddock ahead of the next competitive cycle.

Alex Marquez Returns to a Factory Seat

Marquez, 30, will depart Gresini Racing after four seasons, returning to a full factory setup for the first time since his debut year with Honda Racing Corporation in 2020. The Spaniard finished second in the 2025 MotoGP Championship, cementing his standing as one of the grid's foremost title contenders.

KTM Motorsports Director Pit Beirer cited Marquez's competitive temperament as a decisive factor. 'Alex brings not only excellent talent and race knowledge but also determination and a winning attitude that aligns perfectly with our values,' Beirer said in a statement.

Di Giannantonio Joins from VR46

Fabio Di Giannantonio, 27, will move to KTM at the close of the 2026 season, departing the VR46 Racing Team he joined in 2024. The Italian currently sits third in the MotoGP Championship standings and claimed the second Grand Prix victory of his career in Barcelona earlier this season.

Beirer underlined the Italian's rapid development. 'Fabio has clearly improved to become one of the reliable front-runners in MotoGP. We cannot doubt his speed and commitment to delivering the best performance,' he said.

What the Signings Mean for KTM

By securing two race-proven riders who are entering their prime years, KTM is signalling a deliberate long-term strategy rather than a short-term fix. The Austrian brand has been a consistent podium presence in recent seasons, and pairing Marquez's championship pedigree with Di Giannantonio's ascending form gives the team a credible two-pronged attack for the title from 2027 onwards.

Notably, both riders are departing satellite or semi-works setups — Gresini and VR46 respectively — for a full factory environment, a move that typically brings enhanced technical resources and development priority. This is the kind of roster consolidation that championship-winning programmes are built on.

What Happens Next

The current 2026 MotoGP season continues, with both riders still committed to their respective teams through the end of the campaign. KTM's full factory lineup for 2027 will take shape as the season progresses, with pre-season testing arrangements expected to be confirmed later in the year.