MotoGP Announces Huge Concession System Overhaul For 2024
After a dominant season for Ducati, MotoGP wants to bring the field closer together and announces a huge concession system…
Dani Pedrosa will remain a key figure in KTM’s MotoGP project for another year, having extended his contract as one of the manufacturer’s test riders. However, it’s still unclear whether fans will get another glimpse of the ‘Little Samurai’ as a wildcard.
In a statement from KTM, Pedrosa expressed his enthusiasm about the continued collaboration: “It’s a pleasure to carry on for another season. We know what needs to be improved, and the entire team’s commitment to building a competitive bike hasn’t waned. I’m excited to see what ideas and developments we’ll bring to the table for 2025.”
Pedrosa, a 31-time winner in MotoGP, has been with KTM as a test rider since 2019. KTM’s motorsport director, Pit Beirer, underscored the Spaniard’s importance to the project.
“This was an easy decision for both sides, highlighting the strong trust and relationship we share. We believe in Dani’s value across all areas of our MotoGP program, far beyond just riding the latest version of the KTM RC16.”
Despite the brand’s rapid rise in its early years in MotoGP, KTM has faced a plateau in performance lately. Even with young talent like Pedro Acosta on board, they have struggled to consistently challenge Ducati.
Beirer is confident that Pedrosa’s input can further accelerate KTM’s progress: “We know the turnaround we’re aiming for will come, and having Dani as part of the team will only speed up that process.”
There has also been speculation about Pedrosa potentially taking on a bigger role, including rumors of him replacing Francesco Guidotti as the team principal. However, these claims were swiftly dismissed as baseless.
For the fans, the more pressing question remains: will Pedrosa compete in races again, beyond his duties as a test rider? With KTM eligible for up to six wildcard entries under MotoGP’s current concession system, there’s a chance the 39-year-old could return to the grid in 2025.
His recent wildcards have been impressive, including a podium finish in the sprint race at Jerez. While neither Pedrosa nor KTM have hinted at any future wildcards, there’s hope among fans that the Austrian manufacturer might still convince him for yet another comeback.
