TECH3 ENCOURAGED BY AGIUS’S FIRST MOTOGP TEST

Senna Agius’ first outing on a MotoGP bike left both the Australian rookie and Tech3 encouraged, although the Red Bull Ring test was an introduction rather than a first step on KTM’s 850cc prototype for next season.

Team manager Nicolas Goyon said the prototype work was reserved for more experienced riders. Agius instead rode a modified current-generation 1000cc machine fitted with Pirelli tyres. The test gave Tech3 a chance to welcome him and begin working together ahead of his move to the team next year, when he will partner Luca Marini.

“He was also super delighted. We could see the smile on his face,” Goyon said. He added that the bike’s size suited the tall rider better and that Agius felt more comfortable on it. “He just told us that everything comes much more natural, which is always a good sign.”

Unofficial timing reports placed Agius within half a second of Maverick Vinales, the quickest rider on a modified 1000cc bike. He was also reported to have finished ahead of Takaaki Nakagami, Brad Binder and fellow 2027 rookie Izan Guevara. Goyon cautioned that the more meaningful work would come later: “The real work will start after Valencia, so let’s see there to get some conclusions.”

The test also preceded Vinales’ return to racing at Motegi. He had not competed since the Sachsenring in July and was back after the successful Austrian test, but finished 18th of 22 in the damp opening practice session. The Spaniard has no MotoGP seat for 2027, and Goyon said Tech3 wanted him to have the chance to complete the current season with the team. “I hope it won’t be the end of his career,” he said, describing Vinales’ return as important and adding that he was delighted to have him back.