Tech3 chief’s ‘extraordinary’ verdict on Enea Bastianini’s chances at the Thailand Grand Prix

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Enea Bastianini is approaching his debut as a KTM rider in MotoGP. The Italian will race with satellite outfit Tech3.

Making the switch from Ducati, Bastianini joins Tech3 alongside Aprilia rider Maverick Vinales. KTM have looked to bolster their rider line-up with Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder with the factory team.

The Austrian manufacturer wanted to move the satellite team closer to the factory operation. This is why KTM and Tech3 have almost identical liveries with the latter adorning the orange colours of the former.

All four KTM riders are on factory contracts until the end of 2026. Subsequently, Vinales and Bastianini will receive equal treatment in terms of upgrades, which will be awarded to the best-performing riders.

KTM’s prospects for the 2025 MotoGP season are up in the air after pre-season testing. Both teams have encountered issues with the RC16, with Bastianini in particular struggling.

The Italian has had difficulties adapting to the KTM after trying to adopt his Ducati riding style. Herve Poncharal thinks Bastianini can fulfil ‘huge potential’ if he adjusts his riding style to the KTM.

Herve Poncharal says it will be ‘extraordinary’ if Tech3 riders finish in the top five at the Thailand Grand Prix

The Thailand Grand Prix marks the 2025 season opener on March 2 – and optimism is not too high at Tech3.

While teammate Vinales has remained positive about the RC16, Bastianini’s struggles have been noticeable. KTM are ‘missing’ too much speed according to the Italian after a mixed pre-season campaign.

Nicholas Goyon says Tech3 cannot fight for top positions in 2025, admitting the team have dropped back. Team owner Poncharal reaffirmed this as he was blunt about Vinales and Bastianini’s chances in Thailand.

Speaking with GPOne, he stated that it would take ‘extraordinary’ circumstances for the Tech3 riders to finish in the top five.

“I think we can only achieve a result like this if something extraordinary happens,” admitted Poncharal.

KTM’s tyre wear issue could lead to a ‘dire’ Thailand Grand Prix

While Tech3 are feeling bleak about their chances in Buriram, things may not fare any better for the factory team. KTM had a ‘horrific’ rear tyre issue during testing at the track earlier this month.

The Michelin rubber was ‘absolutely chewed’ as Acosta and Binder returned to the pits. The wear was so bad that Acosta faces a ‘rider safety issue’ heading into the race.

READ MORE: Everything to know about KTM Tech3 including the MotoGP team’s riders

Bastianini also encountered the issue on his RC16, raising huge concerns for all four KTM riders. Bastianini faces a ‘complicated’ race in Thailand if the ‘dire’ tyre issue persists.

Poncharal says Tech3 are ‘not kidding ourselves’ about their chances in Buriram. Vinales and Bastianini could lead the team forward during the season, but they are set for a tough start.