Aki Ajo’s Ascension: The End of Guidotti’s Era and the Ever-Turning Revolving Door at KTM MotoGP

Aki Ajo is hailed as "one of the best," yet it's "nonsense" to hold Guidotti responsible at KTM, as the "constant changes continue."

On Thursday in Japan, Brad Binder, Pedro Acosta, and Jack Miller reacted to the announcement made on Sunday night that Aki Ajo would be replacing Francesco Guidotti as the team manager for KTM's MotoGP starting in 2025.

All three riders are familiar with Ajo, as they competed for the Finnish team in the junior grand prix categories.

Ajo serves as Miller's personal manager. However, the Australian also shares a strong connection with Guidotti, as he previously raced under his guidance at Pramac Ducati from 2018 to 2020 and reconnected with him at Red Bull KTM in 2023.

Miller expressed his strong bond with Francisco and mentioned his sympathy for him. Miller, who will be leaving KTM to join Pramac Yamaha by the year's end, shared these thoughts with MotoGP.com.

"However, I also believe that Aki's resolve and approach to his work are aspects that might intimidate us as future competitors. I am familiar with his management style and work ethic, and I think that is exactly what's necessary."

"It's clear why they feel that way. Of course, it's a letdown for me since I prefer not to oppose Aki, but that's how things are. I wish him all the best."

Nevertheless, Miller rejected the notion that Guidotti is responsible for KTM's failure to launch a long-anticipated bid for the championship.

"I believe that's complete nonsense," Miller stated.

Francesco has excelled as a team leader with Pramac, significantly contributing to their current standing. With the appropriate resources, it's believed he would have achieved similar success with KTM.

"However, that wasn't the right approach, and the cycle continues to repeat itself…"

KTM teammate Binder, who will continue with the team next season, expressed that he will miss Guidotti but believes Ajo will excel in his new position.

"I'll definitely miss Francesco being here; he's like everyone's best buddy in the team. He's an incredibly chill person and has contributed a lot to us over the years. It's been amazing, and I'm grateful to him for everything," expressed the South African, who clinched the Moto3 championship in 2016 with Ajo.

"Conversely, Aki is a colleague with whom I've collaborated for numerous years, and I am genuinely thrilled about his return. He possesses the ability to simplify complex situations effortlessly. I believe he will be an excellent asset to our team."

"Aki excels at identifying areas for improvement and diligently focuses on key issues and topics."

"He is exceptionally skilled at advocating for the things he believes are necessary or that we require to accelerate or enhance our efforts. From this viewpoint, I believe he will excel."

Pedro Acosta, who will soon be joining Binder's team, has not directly collaborated with Guidotti. However, throughout his Moto3 and Moto2 career, he has been with Ajo, clinching a championship in both categories.

"Aki is regarded as one of the top team managers and owners in the paddock," Acosta commented during his first MotoGP season with GASGAS Tech3. "He's definitely the person we need if we aim to compete for a championship."

"It is well-known that Aki has a very cool demeanor, yet when it comes to crucial moments, he steps up to the challenge. I am thrilled to be collaborating with him once more and eager to observe how he handles team management."

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