Enea Bastianini joins KTM for MotoGP 2025 after Ducati exit

The Italian rider looks to adapt to KTM’s RC16 as he aims for success in MotoGP 2025.

Enea Bastianini of Italy and Red Bull KTM Tech3 smiles in the garage during the Thailand MotoGP Test at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 13, 2025. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Yuni Utomo and Adila Ghina

Enea Bastianini is set for a new challenge in the MotoGP 2025 season after securing a move to KTM. The Italian rider, who finished fourth in the 2024 MotoGP standings with 386 points, was forced to find a new team after Ducati chose Marc Marquez as Francesco Bagnaia’s partner for the upcoming season. Now, Bastianini is focused on adapting to KTM’s RC16, a transition that will define his championship prospects.

A strong reputation with Ducati

Bastianini has proven himself as a consistent performer in MotoGP, earning multiple podiums and victories throughout his tenure with Ducati. During the 2024 season, he secured wins at the British Grand Prix and the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, further solidifying his status as a top-tier rider.

His season also included podium finishes in Portugal, the United States, Austria, San Marino, and Malaysia, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level. However, despite his strong performances, Ducati ultimately decided to pair Bagnaia with Marquez, leaving Bastianini to seek new opportunities elsewhere.

Adjusting to KTM’s RC16

Bastianini’s transition to KTM has been closely watched, with early test results offering insights into his adaptation process. At the final pre-season test at Thailand’s Buriram Circuit on February 12-13, 2025, he posted a best lap time of 1 minute 29.8370 seconds, placing him 12th overall. He finished 0.777 seconds behind Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi, who topped the session.

While his performance suggests there is still work to be done, KTM remains optimistic about Bastianini’s potential on the RC16.

KTM confident in Bastianini’s progress

KTM’s team boss, Herve Poncharal, has expressed confidence in Bastianini’s ability to adapt, noting that the Italian is making steady progress in adjusting his riding style to suit the RC16.

"He has great potential. On the KTM, he found some things that are better than on the previous bike. He said he still rides the KTM like a Ducati, but he is improving step by step," Poncharal told GP One.

Poncharal also highlighted the importance of Bastianini’s positive attitude and willingness to adapt, particularly after struggling in early tests.

"In Sepang, he was a little bit disappointed, then he spent a few days with the team in Bangkok, there was a great atmosphere, he told the team about the KTM RC16 and his riding style, and they changed his ideas," Poncharal added.

"Enea came to Buriram with a very positive attitude and managed to make a step forward. So, he is getting closer to our expectations."

The road ahead for Bastianini and KTM

With the MotoGP 2025 season fast approaching, Bastianini faces the challenge of refining his approach to maximize the potential of KTM’s RC16. While adapting to a new machine is never easy, his past experience and racecraft could help him quickly find his footing.

KTM has been making strides in MotoGP, with improvements to their bike and a more competitive lineup. If Bastianini can fully adjust to the RC16, he could emerge as a podium contender throughout the season.

The 2025 season will be a defining year for the Italian rider as he seeks to prove that he can compete at the top level, even after his departure from Ducati. With the right adjustments and continued support from KTM, Bastianini has the opportunity to make a strong impression in his new team.