Team Profile
KTM’s premier-class factory programme
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing is Austrian manufacturer KTM’s direct MotoGP entry, developing and racing the KTM RC16 prototype. KTM began its first full premier-class season in 2017, making 2026 the programme’s tenth consecutive campaign. Compared with several longer-established manufacturers, KTM’s modern premier-class path has centred on continuous development of the RC16.
In 2020, Brad Binder delivered KTM’s first MotoGP victory at Brno in the Czech Republic in only his third premier-class race. That year, Miguel Oliveira also won two Grands Prix for partner team Tech3. Victories for both the factory and partner teams helped KTM build a competitive presence across multiple bikes.
The RC16 and a four-bike entry
In 2026 both the factory team and Red Bull KTM Tech3 use the KTM RC16. The factory team represents the manufacturer directly, while Tech3 contributes its own racing organisation to the same brand’s programme. The teams score separately in the teams’ championship. The performances of the four race riders provide several reference points for assessing the RC16’s competitiveness at different circuits.
KTM’s official presentation treats motorcycle development, engineering work and race preparation as a coordinated undertaking. Assessing performance requires qualifying, the main race and track conditions to be considered together. The result of any individual RC16 reflects both the platform and the rider’s and team’s execution at that event.
The 2026 line-up and mix of experience
The race riders are number 33 Brad Binder and number 37 Pedro Acosta. Binder has been part of important stages in KTM’s premier-class development and delivered the brand’s first victory. Acosta finished fourth in the riders’ championship in 2025 and continues alongside Binder in the factory team in 2026.
The two are at different career stages: Binder has extensive experience on the RC16, while Acosta brings feedback from a more recent arrival in the premier class. Retaining this pairing allows the team to pursue current-season results while continuing to understand the bike. Comparisons within the team also offer useful insight into KTM’s programme.
What to watch
First consider whether both factory riders can consistently secure favourable grid positions, then whether they can maintain or improve their positions in the main race. From a race-analysis perspective, comparisons of the RC16 should extend beyond a single rider. Watching both factory riders alongside Tech3 makes it easier to identify whether the brand is collectively stronger at certain types of circuit and to distinguish individual performances.
Rider Line-up
Last checked: 1 October 2026 · Historical statistics and current points are maintained separately