Hervé Poncharal has something to be proud of when looking at his new KTM RC16. Indeed, their latest war paint gives the feeling that they are truly factory machines since they are only decorated with the manufacturer's banners. More than a symbol, it is a real recognition for the Frenchman and his troops, who brought back two of the three victories that the Austrian motorcycle now has. ...
The official presentation completed and the family portrait drawn, Hervé Poncharal declared on this new beginning in MotoGP under the colors KTM, Literally as figuratively : "After an incredible 2020 season which saw Tech3 KTM win two races with Miguel Oliveira, we are of course looking forward to starting the 2021 season. It will certainly be a very special season for all of us at Tech3 KTM Factory Racing, as we now know that with the KTM RC16 we have the weapon to fight at the front, for pole position, for podiums and victories.
But we will also welcome a new driver with a lot of experience, who will certainly bring his knowledge. We have already exchanged a lot with him. Danilo is a super charming guy, he is so eager, so focused and motivated to start the season with the test in Qatar. He was incredibly surprised and happy with the welcome he received at KTM headquarters. He visited the racing department, the KTM Motohall and he couldn't believe the welcome he received there and the interest from the engineers and everyone involved in the MotoGP project. He already feels like part of the family and he understands how important it is for KTM to race everywhere, especially in the MotoGP category, which is the pinnacle of motorcycle racing.
As a team owner I have to say that the first two years with KTM were like a dream. The improvements from 2019 to 2020 have been incredible and honestly, while I trusted KTM to take a big step, the step they took was something I wasn't expecting”.
Hervé Poncharal: “we are a happy team”
The Frenchman continues: “ as I said before, winning two races, fighting at the front in the second year is an incredible achievement. I would like to thank my 2020 drivers, Iker Lecuona and Miguel Oliveira. I wish Miguel good luck and I know he will be in good hands in the factory team and that is what he deserved. Iker stays with us. We have a lot of trust and expectations from him. He's no longer a bruiser and it's time for him to keep his promises.
Danilo has won a race for the last two years every season and I think we want to continue on this path. But if he wins more than once, clearly we won't be upset. It will be very interesting to see him return to the garage after his first laps aboard a KTM. We are a happy team, everyone is very excited to start the 2021 season, but before we go to Qatar, there is a big moment for KTM and Tech3, which is this presentation. We are very proud of the honor that Stefan Pierer and Hubert Trunkenpolz have done us. We will wear all KTM Factory colors and look like a real factory machine, which is a great recognition for our partnership, but also a significant weight on our shoulder to continue pushing even further.
We know we represent the brand and we know how important a MotoGP bike in factory colors is to everyone. I couldn't wait to show our new colors to the world with our 2021 range. Thank you to everyone who follows and supports us. Be sure that everyone at Tech3 KTM Factory Racing is 100% motivated and can't wait to get started".
