Controversy at KTM: Francesco Guidotti’s Departure Raises Questions Over Strategic Shift

KTM faces backlash for allegedly using Francesco Guidotti as a "scapegoat" – "I can't understand the reasoning."

"I don't understand how bringing Aki Ajo onboard will shave off a few tenths of a second."

KTM faced criticism for their choice to dismiss Francesco Guidotti.

At the conclusion of this season, Guidotti is set to step down from his role as team manager, with Aki Ajo slated to take over the position.

KTM has faced criticism regarding their choice to replace team leaders.

According to Michael Laverty from TNT Sports, Guidotti is considered among the top individuals in his field.

Numerous well-regarded engineers have mentioned that he is the most effective leader they've had. Therefore, KTM's decision is unexpected.

"I compare it to a top-tier soccer team where someone needs to be held accountable when the performance is lacking, and it's typically the coach who ends up being dismissed."

Francesco has been unfairly blamed. The situation landed in his lap, and he handled it well, using his skills effectively and accomplishing a commendable task.

"He's an effective speaker and handles everything well to maintain a positive image for KTM in the public eye."

"I’m not pleased with the fact that he’s been pushed out a year before his contract was set to end in 2025. Clearly, KTM will need to compensate him for the remaining contract period."

"I don't understand the reasoning. While Ajo is an adept team manager, I don't believe it will impact the on-track performance."

"I fail to understand how bringing Ajo into the equation will make up for the few tenths of a second they currently lack."

KTM's approach is quite strict – Guidotti is not at fault. According to Neil Hodgson, "This is typical of KTM's behavior as a manufacturer over the years. They tend to be quite severe."

"They pour significant funds into this MotoGP initiative."

The situation is that progress is being made, but unfortunately, Ducati, one manufacturer, has advanced more significantly than others.

"The only reason it seems KTM is having a tough time is because the 2024 Ducati is different. If the 2024 Ducati were identical to the 2023 model, KTM would be competitive."

"I believe Guidotti hasn't committed any wrongdoing. However, there must be someone held accountable."

"Since only one company can come out on top, you will constantly be seeking solutions and evaluating your options. Replacing the team manager doesn't appear to be the appropriate solution."

Laverty stated, "This action is intended to satisfy the board members."

Hodgson drew a comparison between Guidotti and Ajo, who succeeded him: "Each of them is highly esteemed within this paddock and ranks among the top in their field. However, their approaches are entirely different."

"When I consider Ajo's achievements in the lower categories and his methods, I believe they align better with the disciplined Austrian style rather than the laid-back yet professional approach of Guidotti."

In 2022, Guidotti joined KTM, taking over from Mike Leitner.

In the previous year's championship, he guided Brad Binder to a fourth-place finish, marking a record achievement for the factory team.

This year, they have celebrated Pedro Acosta's impressive progress, and he is set to join their main team in 2025 under the leadership of Ajo.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the paddock delivered to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Reports

Site Index

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Reproducing the text, images, or drawings in whole or in part is prohibited in any manner.