KTM’s High Hopes Dashed at Austrian MotoGP: A Disappointing Finish at Home

KTM Faces Disappointment Following Austrian MotoGP Outcome

Following a successful double podium finish in their home race in 2023, KTM was left to contend with a fifth-place finish in the recent Austrian MotoGP event last weekend.

Brad Binder achieved runner-up positions in both the Sprint and main race during the Austrian MotoGP weekend in 2023, raising anticipation for KTM’s performance in their home race in 2024.

KTM made its way to the Red Bull Ring this season, having completed test runs with Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro at the Spielberg track over the summer hiatus.

Nonetheless, the RC16 was ultimately unable to compete with the Ducati Desmosedici throughout an entire race, including the 2023 model from Bologna when it came to Marc Marquez. Marquez ended up in fourth place after initially falling to 14th position at the beginning.

"Generally speaking, they must feel let down," Alex Lowes shared with TNT Sports. "This is their turf, their circuit, and they've conducted extensive testing here, yet Ducati was noticeably ahead by a significant margin."

TNT analyst and former MotoGP rider Michael Laverty believed that the Desmosedici's performance was also affecting Binder's mindset, who managed to finish as the top KTM rider on Sunday, even though he began the race from the 12th position.

"Laverty mentioned that Binder, as a competitor, feels somewhat discouraged, along with others, when they consider the capabilities of the Ducati GP24."

KTM has a reputation for excellence, viewing their challenges not as setbacks, but as opportunities. Instead of being deterred by any gaps, they're focused on strategizing ways to narrow those differences and be fully prepared by 2025.

"From aerodynamics to engine innovation, they will be focusing on each and every element."

For Laverty, the moment has come for KTM to make the necessary advancements to compete with Ducati.

"He mentioned that Ducati has limited room for enhancement. Clearly, they manage to make some progress, but KTM possesses the financial resources and the expertise; it's just a matter of time."

"They're comparatively recent entrants, not yet reaching a decade as a MotoGP manufacturer in the competition, hence they're continuously enhancing their performance."

"In its 22nd year competing in this championship, Ducati has overcome a significant period of underperformance to reach its current standing, rightfully earning its moment of glory."

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