Marco Bezzecchi
Enea Bastianini has reportedly been handed a MotoGP lifeline ahead of his expected release from KTM despite Joan Mir’s Gresini move.
Bastianini, 28, is currently racing for the KTM satellite team Tech3 alongside Maverick Vinales.
Back in March, it was claimed that Gresini were expected to sign Bastianini to partner Moto2 title-contender Daniel Holgado for their 2027 MotoGP line-up.
However, due to KTM’s option to extend Bastianini’s contract for 2027, Gresini decided to pivot to Mir.
It was reported on Friday that Mir will sign with Gresini for 2027 and 2028, ending his four-year stay with Honda.
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Enea Bastianini lands MotoGP lifeline ahead of expected KTM release
According to The Race, Bastianini was Gresini’s priority signing, but following their decision to go after Mir instead, the Italian has now been handed a lifeline to remain in MotoGP.
It has been suggested that Bastianini is now expected to be released by KTM and, in turn, join Trackhouse.
The report stated that Bastianini will fill the Trackhouse seat vacated by Ai Ogura, who will be joining Yamaha ahead of the 2027 MotoGP campaign.
It is currently expected that Bastianini will race alongside Raul Fernandez at Trackhouse next season.
Speaking recently to GPOne, Bastianini was asked about his future. He replied: “There’s no news yet, but as I said, we’re very close.”
When asked whether he is prioritising a factory contract or a competitive bike, the 28-year-old said: “Ideally, I’d like both!
“In this world, you’re happy when you’re fast, but no one can guarantee that 100%, especially next season with the new bikes—850cc, less aerodynamics, and no downforce. I have to make a decision.”
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Currently, Bastianini sits 10th in the standings, having scored 39 points from the opening five rounds.
Looking ahead to this weekend’s Catalan Grand Prix, Bastianini said: “My expectations here are higher than at other circuits because I had a good weekend here last year, and I’d like to do it again. It’ll be important to start off on the right foot, without thinking too much about the past or the future but focusing on the present.”
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