This has been in the air for some time and is now an official reality. Niccolo Antonelli, the current Ongetta Honda rider, will continue his Moto3 career started in 2012 with the leather of a KTM official. His teammate will be the young Bo Bendsneyder who is confirmed in his role.
The 20-year-old Italian will replace Brad Binder who could crown his world crown at the next meeting in Aragon and who has assured his future in Moto2 with the same KTM brand within the Ajo team. Having a reputation for being fast, but also for falling a lot, Antonelli will be keen to do much better, next year, than the fifth acquired last year in the championship and which remains to this day their best position in a championship.
« I'm very happy to join the Red Bull KTM Ajo team, it's like a dream come true » commented the Italian. “ It is a team where many drivers have won crowns and which has always fought at the front. So I want to learn as much as possible next year. My goal is to fight for victory in each race, or failing that, to be on the podium when that is not possible.
I want to progress more and I will give everything to get there. I'm excited to ride a KTM again. I'm sure this bike is very different from the one I raced in 2014 and much better. I can not wait to be there »
The beginner Bendsneyder who already claims a podium at Silverstone will continue his adventure in orange: “ Being on this team for one more year is a great opportunity. I would like to thank Aki, Red Bull, KTM and all the other partners. But I want to make sure I finish the season well, before thinking about next year. I am confident that we will do a good job. We must keep our feet on the ground and continue to work hard.
Next year I will be associated with a new teammate. I had a good relationship with Brad but I am convinced that it will be the same with Niccolò. I'm really looking forward to working with him. This team is like my family, I feel very good there. Everyone is very united to move forward and that is the most important thing. Next year I will give my best and see if it is possible to play up front. But first I want to focus on my end of the season ».
With Antonelli, KTM recovers a good rider to defend its colors to the detriment of Honda. But the Japanese brand is not far from finding the Leopard team in its fold and especially the very promising Joan mir. Antonelli already rode a KTM during the 2014 season.
