Aki Ajo Ascends to KTM MotoGP Team Manager, Succeeding Francesco Guidotti for 2025 Season

Announcement: Aki Ajo Appointed as Manager of KTM's MotoGP Team

Aki Ajo steps in to replace Francesco Guidotti as the team manager for the Red Bull KTM MotoGP squad.

KTM has announced that Aki Ajo will transition from leading his own Ajo Moto2 and Moto3 teams, which are supported by the factory, to assume the role of KTM's MotoGP team manager starting in 2025.

Ajo has taken over from Francesco Guidotti, who had held the position since he moved to KTM from Pramac Ducati in 2022. The speculation surrounding Guidotti's exit, which had been circulating since the Misano race, was officially confirmed on Sunday night in Mandalika.

"Given our unique bond and the tight partnership we share with Aki, we believed that proceeding with this decision was optimal for advancing the MotoGP initiative," remarked KTM's motorsport chief, Pit Beirer.

I've mentioned previously and I'll reiterate: his faith in us was unwavering from the moment we started setting up in this area, establishing a bond of trust and camaraderie that is unparalleled. The accomplishments of his team are a testament to their excellence. He has secured championships with both riders who will be joining us in the pitbox for the 2025 season, yet that expertise is merely a fraction of the talents he contributes.

"We are confident in the rich heritage we bring, and it's clear Aki is well-versed with our organization and our racing approach. I'm genuinely happy and honored that we're embarking on this endeavor together, furthering a journey that started many years back and has been filled with significant achievements and memorable narratives."

Ajo Motorsport entered the grand prix scene in the 125cc category in 2001, clinched its inaugural victory in 2003, and secured its first world championship in 2008, with Mike De Meglio riding a Derbi. Marc Marquez captured Ajo's second championship in 2010.

In 2012, at the dawn of the Moto3 era, Ajo teamed up with KTM and immediately clinched the four-stroke title through Sandro Cortese's victory. Since then, 'Red Bull KTM Ajo' has secured two additional championships, courtesy of Brad Binder in 2016 and Pedro Acosta in 2021.

In 2015, Ajo expanded into the Moto2 division, immediately securing consecutive titles with Johann Zarco riding a Kalex framework.

Following the conclusion of KTM's brief venture into the Moto2 chassis initiative from 2017 to 2019, Ajo switched back to Kalex machinery and has since secured three consecutive Moto2 championships with riders Remy Gardner, Augusto Fernandez, and Pedro Acosta.

Aki Ajo expressed his delight, stating, "Being given this incredible new position and the chance to collaborate with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in MotoGP is a true privilege."

Currently, MotoGP is operating at an exceptional level, thus it's imperative for us to keep improving in various aspects and leverage our advantages to enhance the KTM package further.

"It's crucial that we continue to exert effort, however, I believe this project possesses numerous strong elements that position it for peak success; our task is to optimize their handling. My gratitude goes out to Stefan, Hubert, Pit, Jens, and all members of the KTM team."

Next season, Ajo is set to team up again with his ex-Moto3 and Moto2 racers, Binder and Acosta, at KTM.

The individual from Finland also oversees the career of Jack Miller, who is set to depart from KTM for Pramac Yamaha in the upcoming season, following his replacement by Acosta and the loss of an opportunity to join Tech3.

A statement from KTM highlighted that the Red Bull KTM Ajo setup within both Moto3 and Moto2 divisions will continue its emphasis on nurturing the top talents within the KTM GP Academy, following Ajo's appointment to a new position.

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