During the four-week summer break between the Sachsenring and Silverstone races (August 2-4), KTM is working hard to close the gap with the MotoGP leaders. This week, Wednesday and Thursday, Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaró take part in testing at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg. Pedro Acosta, meanwhile, watches from the stands. New tests are also scheduled for the end of July.
For Pol Espargaro, these tests are not limited to testing new parts for KTM RC16, but also serve as preparation for a wild-card appearance during the Austrian Grand Prix from August 16 to 18. In June, I will espargaro competed in the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, finishing 14th in the sprint and 17th in the main Grand Prix. He will make his second wild-card appearance this season at Spielberg, a familiar circuit where he claimed the first podium of KTM.
« I'm ready to ride again », says Pol Espargaro. " Mugello was a special return with the Red Bull KTM team, but there is nothing more special than the Red Bull Ring. Because of the track, the venue, the fans and the atmosphere. And because this Grand Prix means so much to KTM, it's a bit like a home race for me too. I have good memories of fighting for victory there. As in Italy, the objective will be to take the KTM RC16 on track and continue our testing program. We will have a lot to do, but I also know that the Austrian GP will be a lot of fun. »
Pol Espargaro: “ there is nothing more special than the Red Bull Ring, this Grand Prix means so much to KTM »
Pol Espargaro has already raced eight times on the Styrian track, with a podium in 2020 where he finished third. He hopes to repeat this success and take full advantage of this unique opportunity. This Austrian Grand Prix could mark a special moment for the Espargaró brothers. Aleix Espargaró will end his regular racing career at the end of the year and join the test team of Honda for the new season. However, Pol Espargaro will continue to provide his expertise as a test pilot for KTM, with more wild-card appearances planned.
With these intensive tests, KTM shows its determination to improve its performance and get closer to the leaders of the MotoGP.
