Liberty Media faces a new challenge from the European Union regarding its acquisition of MotoGP. The EU is preparing to investigate the planned takeover.

Liberty Media's proposed acquisition of the MotoGP World Championship is facing scrutiny from the European Union, which plans to investigate the transaction.

According to reports from business networks Bloomberg and Reuters, the European Union's newly appointed antitrust leader, Teresa Ribera, along with her team, are concerned that the 3.5 billion euro agreement might hinder competition in the fields of broadcasting and streaming by consolidating the ownership of the MotoGP and F1 brands.

Earlier this year, the American corporation that owns Formula 1 revealed its decision to purchase Dorna Sports and MotoGP, securing an 86% majority stake. Following this announcement, Liberty Media has been working through the required regulatory procedures to finalize the acquisition by the end of the year.

In August, Liberty Media revealed its intention to sell $825 million worth of F1 shares to help finance its proposed purchase of MotoGP.

In November, the company's CEO, Greg Maffei, announced that the acquisition of MotoGP had been submitted to the European Commission for approval.

He mentioned, "Regarding MotoGP, we have submitted a request to the European Commission for regulatory approval, and we anticipate obtaining it by the end of the year."

The European Commission has a deadline of December 19th to decide on Liberty's acquisition of MotoGP. However, with recent developments, it is reported that authorities are getting ready to start a phase 2 investigation by the same deadline. This information, highlighted in a Bloomberg report, also notes that the decision is still preliminary and could be altered.

In 2006, CVC Capital acquired Formula 1 but was compelled by competition authorities to relinquish its stake in MotoGP. This move was due to concerns of monopolistic practices in the motorsport industry, leading to the sale of MotoGP to its current owner, Bridgepoint.

In October of this year, Belgian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Pascal Arimont requested that the European Commission look into Liberty Media due to concerns that it may have a monopoly in global motorsport, given its ownership of Formula 1 and MotoGP.

Despite past challenges, Liberty has remained optimistic from the start that the outcome will be different this time. When Reuters contacted Liberty Media for a statement, the company did not provide a response at this time.

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MotoGP's Unwanted Award for 'Underachiever of the Year' Handed Out

Our specialists reveal the rider whose performance fell short of expectations in 2024

Everyone aims to avoid falling short of their potential.

Regrettably, during the 2024 MotoGP season, one competitor caught our attention by achieving far less than what we had expected.

In yet another season where Ducati took the lead, Marc Marquez showcased the potential of the GP23, but his fellow competitors struggled to keep up, highlighting his exceptional talent.

This led our specialists to consider which rider in MotoGP fell short of expectations the most this year…

Marco Bezzecchi was anticipated to be a persistent challenger to the leading contenders for the championship once more in 2024. In 2023, he secured victories in three grand prix events, ultimately finishing third in the rankings while representing VR46.

However, in 2024, he did not achieve that level of performance

A significant factor was the GP23's poor compatibility with his aggressive braking technique. Meanwhile, his teammate, Fabio Di Giannantonio, rode the identical motorcycle and led by 12 points in the rankings, even though he missed the last two races due to surgery.

Marco Bezzecchi now has a challenging task at Aprilia as an official team rider, competing against current world champion Jorge Martin.

Jordan Moreland highlights that Marco Bezzecchi delivered impressive performances throughout 2023, ultimately securing a position within the top three of the World Championship standings.

In 2024, his performance fell short as he was trailing by 239 points compared to Marc Marquez's leading GP23 score.

We are hopeful that he will enhance his performance with Aprilia in 2025.

Marco Bezzecchi, who finished just behind Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin last season with three Grand Prix victories, has surprisingly fallen to 12th place in this year's world championship standings, ranking last among Ducati riders.

His standout moment was reaching the podium in Jerez.

Following the signing of Bezzecchi for the 2025 season, Aprilia's Massimo Rivola commented, "In my opinion, the true Bezzecchi is the one we saw last year, not the version we've seen this year."

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Marc Marquez shares his genuine feelings with Valentino Rossi about maintaining their ongoing rivalry

Marc Marquez reacts to Valentino Rossi's frustration

Marc Marquez has shared his thoughts on their ongoing conflict following Valentino Rossi's recent outburst.

Rossi has revived the wounds from their 2015 clash, criticizing Marquez for behaving in an unsportsmanlike manner and holding him responsible for Rossi's inability to clinch the MotoGP championship during that infamous season.

Rossi delivered harsh remarks just as Marquez was getting ready to join Ducati, where he would work with VR46 protégé Pecco Bagnaia.

Marquez has since issued a reply.

According to Marca, Marquez stated that a conflict cannot occur if one party is unwilling.

Trying to dampen the flames ignited by Rossi could be the perfect strategy as 2025 approaches.

Marquez needs to get used to the latest factory Ducati model after spending the previous season on an older version.

Marquez now has the same equipment as Bagnaia, and with Jorge Martin, the champion, getting used to the Aprilia, he can clearly see another MotoGP title on the horizon.

Marc Marquez stated, "I didn't question the decision; I simply asked where to sign." Looking back on a successful 2024, Marquez discussed his significant return to form following the accidents and injuries that plagued his last period with Honda.

He managed to remain a strong contender for the title until the final stages of the championships. His choice to move from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati helped him get back to winning races.

"When you suddenly encounter the negative aspects of sports, it transforms you unexpectedly," he explained.

"Sustaining an injury can lead you into a downward spiral, and you understand the potential consequences that might follow."

"After returning from an injury and feeling some discomfort, you realize that winning isn't the usual outcome. It's more common to finish in second or third place, or even lower, since for every victory, there are 20 losses."

This is why I appreciate winning now more than I did in the past.

"This year's team has provided an ideal setting for me to rejuvenate, allowing me to be present without any stress and to enjoy myself. Gresini, a team full of enthusiasm, was originally founded by Fausto and is currently managed by his wife along with dedicated long-term members. It is a satellite team that blends enthusiasm with expertise."

In sports, your current performance defines your value, based on your most recent competitions. I was beginning to excel, adjusting to the Ducati, and continuously improving.

"When I was informed that I had been selected, I didn't question the reasoning; I simply replied, 'Alright, where do I put my signature?' and that was the end of it."

Gigi Dall’Igna informed me, and I responded with appreciation, intending to ensure it's the appropriate choice.

Marquez likened teaming up with Bagnaia in the garage to a football analogy.

"He referred to Vinicius as the key player and the main figure for Real Madrid."

"After that, Mbappé will need to adjust."

Pecco has set the standard in the Ducati team, securing victory in 11 races this season. He contended for the World Championship right up to the final race and has twice claimed the world champion title with this team.

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Departing KTM CEO identifies specific issues from this year

KTM leader evaluates underwhelming performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly explained precisely how KTM faltered this season.

At the beginning of the season, KTM was expected to be Ducati's primary competitors, but they failed to secure a single victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder secured fifth place, while Pedro Acosta took sixth, emerging as the highest-ranked riders not on Ducati bikes in the MotoGP standings. However, their manufacturer was unable to provide them with a bike capable of winning races.

In a different scenario, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales secured a grand prix win at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA).

Although Acosta showed exceptional talent from the beginning, the expectation that he would secure a victory did not materialize.

"We got off to a strong start with several riders making it to the podium. There were high hopes," stated Guidotti, the departing team leader.

"We set an ambitious goal and performed well up until the halfway point of the season."

"Starting around the middle of the season, we faced some difficulties. We followed a path that didn't work out well for us."

"The leading competitors showed slight progress, which widened the gap further."

"In the middle of the season, we experienced an unusual moment."

"That was the moment we missed the opportunity to remain among the leaders."

"The conduct of the riders was commendable; they remained persistent throughout. The technicians also maintained their determination. However, in reality, we were not competitive in the race."

Acosta showed significant potential by finishing in second place in Texas, but unfortunately, he endured eight challenging races without securing a spot on the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez were consistently trailing their respective teammates.

"We needed to go back to the beginning of the film and play it from the start," Guidotti mentioned.

At the tail end of the season, KTM clearly emerged as the leading team. There were a few accidents and various incidents.

"On the whole, it's acceptable, although it's not our ideal situation. However, it's what we're dealing with for now."

"In the beginning of the year, we failed to take advantage of multiple opportunities, which ultimately led to our defeat."

Guidotti is set to step down from his role, with Aki Ajo taking over as the head of KTM's team in 2025.

"There must be. Numerous alterations are taking place," stated Guidotti.

Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration.

"As these transformations occur, we also sacrifice both expertise and a sense of connection."

"I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The roster of riders appears to be noticeably more robust.

Acosta has been elevated to join the factory team with Binder.

The Tech3 KTM team has announced that its lineup will include Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

KTM's concerns might stem from their financial challenges outside of the MotoGP arena.

The company has initiated self-administration following its first €3 billion release.

They assert that their MotoGP plans for 2025 remain unchanged, and they have scheduled tests to jumpstart their development for a strong beginning next year.

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Aleix Espargaro, who recently stepped away from MotoGP racing, has revealed that he is now part of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling squad.

After ending his full-time career in MotoGP, Aleix Espargaro has become a member of the Lidl-Trek professional cycling team.

Starting January 1, 2025, Espargaro will take on a role as an ambassador for the Lidl-Trek team.

According to a statement from the team, Espargaro will participate in the Lidl-Trek team at several of the most renowned events on the schedule.

Espargaro expressed excitement about becoming part of the Lidl-Trek team, which includes some of the top cyclists globally.

"I am eager to gain knowledge from top cyclists and experienced staff, challenge myself, and involve fans in this unique experience."

Espargar, who has been passionate about cycling for many years, shared that he decided to leave his MotoGP racing career sooner than he had intended in order to become part of the Lidl-Trek team.

He expressed that cycling has long been a personal passion, and he chose to leave MotoGP sooner than he initially intended to participate in a program that perfectly matches his interests.

"I am incredibly thankful to Lidl-Trek for accepting me into their team and backing me. I am committed to putting in my utmost effort."

Espargaro revealed that he would step down from competing full-time in MotoGP at the Catalunya Grand Prix, which is his home race, this year.

In addition to his responsibilities with Lidl-Trek, Espargaro has taken on a new testing role for HRC's MotoGP project. He started this position during the official test in Barcelona last month, which occurred after the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix.

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Davide Tardozzi criticizes Pecco Bagnaia: “Those competitors are defeating you”

“You can’t constantly act politely. It’s not always possible…”

A newly released three-part MotoGP series by Ducati showcases a rather intense exchange between Francesco Bagnaia and Davide Tardozzi.

The documentary series titled "Dream On: Ducati and Bagnaia’s Pursuit of Glory" aims to provide an insider's perspective on the concluding stages of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, specifically highlighting the Ducati Lenovo Team and their spotlight on Bagnaia.

A significant moment in the initial episode, released on Ducati's YouTube channel on December 15, occurs following the Sprint at the Thai Grand Prix.

Starting from pole position, Bagnaia found himself in third place after the initial corner as his championship competitor, Jorge Martin, overtook him on the inside approach to the first turn.

The Italian rider regained his place ahead of Martin as they exited the corner. However, later in the race, the Spaniard overtook him again during the transition from turn six to turn seven, pushing Bagnaia down to third place.

The scene takes place inside Bagnaia's truck following the Sprint event, featuring a conversation among Bagnaia, his wife, sister, press officer, and Davide Tardozzi, the manager of the Ducati Lenovo Team.

"Martin showed courage today," Tardozzi remarked to Bagnaia.

"The courage to take you down. […] He had already made up his mind to trouble you. He did what was necessary."

"That's your task for tomorrow. You can't constantly be the nice guy. It's not possible, especially when these guys are beating you."

According to the statement, Martin deliberately aimed for you at the initial turn, having premeditated his decision to collide with you. This is absolutely certain.

"You should stop being overly polite, as these individuals will take advantage of you."

Following a last-minute decision, which was highlighted in the initial episode of *Dream On*, Bagnaia's team altered his main bike to a wet setup. This strategic move allowed him to recover from the Sprint's setbacks and secure his first Grand Prix victory in the top category under rainy conditions.

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The adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to secure a significant place in MotoGP history

While maintaining a MotoGP world championship is challenging, Jorge Martin faces an additional hurdle as he will be defending it with a new manufacturer in 2025.

Spanish racer Jorge Martin's transition from the Pramac Ducati team to Aprilia offers him a unique chance to secure MotoGP championships with multiple manufacturers.

In order for him to achieve that, Aprilia, which secured third place in the constructors' standings this year, must enhance its MotoGP package.

"The situation is indeed a step down," stated Jordan Moreland, host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, explaining that Ducati's dominance is the reason. He noted that during Jorge Martin's initial test in Barcelona, although his personal thoughts weren't shared publicly, the team appeared to be quite satisfied with the results.

"The focus for Aprilia is on advancing further, as they've been working towards this goal for the past season and a half. The progress they've made, especially compared to Ducati, has been quite evident."

Peter McLaren, the editor at Crash.net for MotoGP, highlighted that a crucial factor for Martin's championship in 2025 is maintaining consistency. This was an area where the Mallorcan excelled in 2024, unlike Aprilia, which struggled with it.

McLaren commented, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who mentioned that they need to improve their overall average, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole factory to surpass Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they also fell behind KTM in the constructors' rankings.

"Aprilia's performance has been somewhat inconsistent, and they must improve their average results to remain competitive in the championship race."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third racer ever to claim consecutive premier class Grand Prix titles on different motorcycle brands, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

McLaren stated that achieving this would be incredibly significant for Martin.

"To my knowledge, only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have won consecutive championships with different manufacturers. This presents an opportunity for him to achieve a significant historical feat."

"He definitely faces a significant challenge, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's incredible performances at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), where he secured a victory that left even him puzzled as to why everything clicked so perfectly at that venue. However, he hasn't reached the podium since then, highlighting the importance of consistency."

"It's not the most exciting term, and it might seem dull, but consistency is crucial for winning championships, especially when the season includes over 40 races. This fact was evident this year when Martin managed to outperform Bagnaia, despite Bagnaia having claimed victory in more Grands Prix."

A crucial factor in improving consistency will be making more effective use of the 2024 Michelin rear tire. This was a variable in the past season that only Ducati managed to fully optimize.

Crash.net journalist Lewis Duncan stated that Aprilia's primary requirement from Martin is insight into how the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tire.

The crucial aspect for Aprilia is this: when you talk to riders from KTM or Aprilia, they’re uncertain but tend to believe that the issues they encountered this year differ from those they faced in the previous year. Consequently, the only thing that can be held responsible is the new rear tire.

"The issue isn't with the rear tire itself; the new rear tire offers such enhanced grip that only Ducati managed to fully take advantage of it."

"After they discovered its potential, no one else could achieve the same."

It has been observed that KTM experienced significant vibration issues, which were likely tied to the rear tire. Honda encountered similar problems, and Ducati faced them initially. While the Aprilia riders did not seem to voice many complaints about vibrations, they dealt with other challenges such as grip problems, traction difficulties, and notably high degradation during Grand Prix races.

The ability to deliver a powerful performance in a single lap was evident, and their speed was acceptable in shorter races; however, they faced difficulties maintaining this over extended distances.

In Malaysia, Aleix Espargaro seemed unaware of the situation. Aprilia is likely expecting that Martin can provide at least this level of insight. If Aprilia's hypothesis is correct—that the issue involves the 2024 rear tire—then Martin is someone who has experience with making that tire perform effectively on a bike.

Nonetheless, even though Aprilia's goals leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March are evident, reaching those objectives will be challenging due to staffing changes in Noale this winter.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin, along with Fabiano Sterlacchini, the new technical director stepping in for Romano Albesiano, have all now joined the factory.

Duncan stated that Aprilia is undergoing changes with a fresh set of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to succeed Romano Albesiano.

Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June. However, he struggled to fully optimize the performance of the KTM RC16's rear tire before his departure. The team faces a significant winter season, and the initial tests are expected to be intriguing.

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Giacomo Agostini shares his thoughts on the rivalry between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi, noting that "they were not contemporaries…"

Giacomo Agostini, who has won the World Championship 15 times, has shared his thoughts on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

Agostini holds the record for the most race victories in Grand Prix racing history, surpassing Rossi. However, after Marquez joined the premier class in 2013, he consistently outperformed the Italian in the riders' rankings, except for the 2015 and 2020 seasons. During his first seven seasons in the top class, the Spanish rider claimed six championship titles.

Giovanni Agostini expressed to the Spanish outlet Relevo that Marc Marquez is his soft spot, explaining that Marquez captivates audiences and racegoers with his performances. Agostini noted that Marquez is an entertainer who is adored by fans.

According to Agostini, Rossi is considered "a great."

"A rider with great strategic skills. To achieve nine world championships, one must possess excellent instincts."

The competition between the two was seldom evident in direct confrontations during races, particularly beyond the year 2015, which Agostini attributes to the timing and Marquez's personal mindset.

Nevertheless, it remains considered one of the fiercest rivalries in MotoGP over the last decade.

"They were not of the same age," he explained. "One of them had begun, while the other had not. This might have influenced the outcome in the end, you see?"

"While I acknowledge that Rossi has also sparked excitement, I believe that Marquez is actually more audacious, fearless, and adventurous."

“He is a warrior, and this could endear him to many. Marc is relentless and always puts on a great show.”

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Giacomo Agostini shares his thoughts on the rivalry between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi, noting that they were not contemporaries in terms of age.

Giacomo Agostini, who has won the World Championship 15 times, has shared his thoughts on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

Agostini holds the record for the most race victories in the history of Grand Prix racing, surpassing Rossi. However, after Marquez entered the premier class in 2013, he consistently outperformed the Italian in the riders' rankings, except in the 2015 and 2020 seasons. During his first seven seasons at the top level, the Spaniard clinched six championship titles.

In an interview with the Spanish outlet Relevo, Agostini expressed that Marc Marquez is his soft spot. He believes Marquez energizes the audience and captivates race-goers with his performances, making him a crowd favorite.

Agostini described Rossi as "a great."

"A racer with strategic skill. To secure nine world championships, one must possess natural talent."

The competition between the two rarely translated into direct confrontations on the track, notably after 2015. Agostini attributes this to the timing and Marquez’s personal mindset.

Despite everything, it continues to be seen as one of the fiercest rivalries in MotoGP over the last decade.

"They weren't the same age," he remarked. "One of them had begun, while the other hadn't. This might have influenced the end results, you know?"

While I acknowledge that Rossi also sparked excitement, I must admit that, upon reflection, Marquez strikes me as more audacious, fearless, and adventurous.

"He is a warrior, and this trait might appeal to people even more. Marc is relentless and always puts on a great show."

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Lorenzo Savadori has signed a new agreement to continue his position as a test rider for Aprilia in MotoGP. The company has officially announced that Savadori will remain in his role.

Lorenzo Savadori has agreed to continue his role as the official MotoGP test rider for Aprilia for a minimum of two more years after signing a fresh contract with the Noale-based company.

Under the terms of the new agreement, Savadori will continue in his position until at least the conclusion of 2026. This will mark his seventh year as a test rider and coincide with the final year of the existing 1,000cc MotoGP regulations.

Savadori expressed his delight at extending his journey with Aprilia Racing for another two seasons, stating that he is thrilled to keep working with the team.

"In the past few years, our performance has been remarkable, and I am confident that we will keep getting better and better."

"Our expansion has been steady and methodical, driven by a clear objective that remains our priority: helping the RS-GP reach the pinnacle of MotoGP."

The head of Aprilia Racing, Massimo Rivola, emphasized the significance of Savadori's position as a test rider for Aprilia this year. This comes as the Italian manufacturer introduces two fresh competitors: Marco Bezzecchi and the newly crowned MotoGP World Champion, Jorge Martin. Rivola also announced that Savadori will compete in select Grands Prix as a wildcard entry in 2025.

Aprilia Racing is pleased to announce that it will maintain its collaboration with Lorenzo Savadori. Savadori has been a crucial part of the team, contributing significantly to the remarkable progress achieved in recent years, alongside the test team, according to Rivola.

The term "Sava" symbolizes ongoing progress, which is crucial for collaborating with a highly reliable test rider. This is particularly important in a pivotal year when two new riders are set to become part of the factory team.

"He'll serve as a significant asset during several Grand Prix events, where he will still make appearances as a wildcard, testing out innovative solutions."

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Augusto Fernandez has secured a contract for 2025 following his departure from KTM's MotoGP team. He will now serve as a test rider for Yamaha’s MotoGP initiative.

Augusto Fernandez has been officially announced as a test rider for the Yamaha MotoGP team.

Earlier this year, Fernandez's stint as a full-time MotoGP racer concluded after two years when KTM and the Tech3 team decided to part ways with him at the conclusion of the 2024 season. He is now set to become part of Yamaha's official MotoGP test team alongside Cal Crutchlow.

The racer from Spain managed to secure a top finish of fourth place during his two-year stint in the MotoGP series, with this achievement occurring at the 2023 French Grand Prix. In 2024, the transition to KTM's carbon frame proved challenging for the Spaniard, hindering further progress during his initial year in the top category. However, due to Yamaha's current concessions status, he will have the opportunity to participate in as many as six wildcard races in 2025.

"I am thrilled and extremely excited to become a test rider for Yamaha in 2025," stated Fernandez.

"Being included in the Yamaha team is a significant privilege, and I am grateful to everyone who helped make this possible."

"In this exciting venture, I am committed to putting in my utmost effort to return Yamaha to their rightful position."

Yamaha Racing's Managing Director, Lin Jarvis, shared that Fernandez is set to be the main substitute rider for Yamaha in the 2025 season. This means if any of their four riders are unable to compete due to injury, Fernandez will step in. Furthermore, it is suggested that Fernandez will participate in all six of Yamaha's wildcard races.

Yamaha is focusing on bike development in order to quickly get back to their winning form, according to Jarvis.

"We have brought on Augusto as our second Yamaha Test Rider to work alongside Cal Crutchlow. Cal was unfortunately unable to handle all his testing responsibilities in 2024, making it clear that we needed to hire an additional rider to help complete all the necessary tasks for 2025."

"We are confident that Augusto will integrate well with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team and the YZR-M1 motorcycle. As a young and speedy rider, Augusto has the opportunity to work with Cal and master the unique techniques needed for a dedicated test rider role."

"Our present standing allows us to fully utilize the maximum capacity of the testing program. Beyond the tests, we plan to engage in as many as six wild-card races. Additionally, Augusto will serve as the designated substitute rider if any of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team or Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders are unable to compete at any point during the 2025 season."

"The numerous chances to ride ought to help Augusto keep up his racing pace as he continues with the demanding testing duties."

Augusto has begun collaborating with us behind the scenes, and he will officially take part in his first test during the shakedown session in Sepang, scheduled for late January 2025.

"Currently, we are keeping a close eye on Cal's recovery from his arm problems earlier this year, and we are optimistic that he will be back soon to continue his testing responsibilities."

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KTM has removed former racing legend Jeremy McWilliams from his longstanding position as a test rider.

According to reports, Jeremy McWilliams, who is a former Grand Prix motorcycle racer, has been removed from his position as a test rider at KTM, a position he has occupied for the past 15 years.

Since 2009, McWilliams has served at KTM. He is notably recognized in the Grand Prix scene for being the last rider to secure a pole position in the top category using a 500cc motorcycle during the 2002 Australian Grand Prix.

As reported by the German outlet Speedweek, the agreement between McWilliams and KTM, initially set to continue until the close of 2025, has been abruptly ended due to KTM's present financial difficulties. This decision marks the conclusion of a 15-year partnership between the motorcycle manufacturer from Mattighofen and the rider from Belfast.

As a test rider for KTM, McWilliams has primarily focused on testing production models. However, he was also brought in during the initial phase of developing the RC16.

Lately, McWilliams has played a role in creating the latest mid-range sports bike from an Austrian company, the RC 990. This motorcycle is designed for KTM to compete in the Supersport category, going head-to-head with rivals such as the Ducati Panigale V2, Kawasaki ZX-6R, and Yamaha R9.

Prior to joining KTM, McWilliams played a role in the BMW S1000RR project. At that time, the Bavarian brand was working on the initial versions of the motorcycle, which has since achieved success by winning the World Superbike Championship with its new M Power model, ridden by Toprak Razgatlioglu.

The racer from Northern Ireland has been performing well in competitions lately. He secured a podium finish in the second Supertwin race at the North West 200 this year. Additionally, he has been a strong contender for wins while riding as a factory Indian rider in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers category, which features high-displacement touring motorcycles.

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