Marco Bezzecchi
Maverick Vinales may have found a lifeline in MotoGP despite his early struggles this season, with a seat available to him in 2027.
Vinales was said to be on an ‘unofficial blacklist’ for riders who were unlikely to earn a seat for the 2027 season, thanks in large part to the frustration surrounding him at KTM.
Prior to the Catalan Grand Prix, Vinales missed several races due to an injury and had to undergo surgery to address the issue.
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The frustration over his unavailability got to a point where KTM boss Pit Beirer said patience was running out when it came to Vinales and his future.
But as KTM try and prepare for next season amid the chaotic rider market, Maverick Vinales may have escaped this blacklist.
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KTM likely to retain Maverick Vinales as Enea Bastianini leaves Tech3 for Trackhouse
Speaking to Nico Abad, MotoGP reporter Mela Chercoles revealed that Maverick Vinales is now likely to stay with Tech3, thanks to Enea Bastianini leaving to join Trackhouse next year.
As a result of Bastianini’s departure and Fabio Di Giannantonio and Alex Marquez joining KTM’s factory team, Vinales is set to stay with Tech3.
“The most likely scenario is that Maverick will stay because Bastianini, according to an English colleague, is going to Trackhouse.
“Di Giannantonio and Alex Marquez are going to the official team, and it’s gaining traction that Maverick will stay with Tech3, who announced that they will be staying with KTM.”
Given the concern surrounding Vinales’ future with Tech3, he will be relieved to know that he will most probably get another chance to prove his worth to the team and KTM next year.
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Maverick Vinales cannot waste second chance with Tech3
Despite Vinales and KTM’s negotiations initially being suspended, the Spanish rider has managed to earn a second chance with Tech3 next season.
Prior to the season, many felt that Vinales could compete with Pedro Acosta and even defeat him come the end of 2026.
However, a combination of unfortunate injuries and poor performances have held Vinales back from hitting this potential.
But now that he has another chance to show KTM officials why they took a chance on him, Vinales cannot squander the opportunity.
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