MotoGP: Tech3 KTM reveal striking new 2021 livery

Tech3 KTM has unveiled its brand-new livery ahead of the 2021 MotoGP season during a special online launch presentation.

The presentation, held virtually due to Covid-19, was a joint affair with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team and also unveiled Danilo Petrucci in his new KTM colours for the first time since leaving Ducati. Iker Lecouna was also seen in his updated leathers.

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The team’s livery has changed dramatically following the departure of the ‘Organics by Red Bull’ sponsorship at the end of 2020. The blue and silver paint scheme has been replaced by a stunning orange and black design. The livery features ELF sponsorship and KTM’s own slogan; Ready to Race.

Petrucci joins the Austrian manufacturer after spending the last six years on Ducati machinery. The Italian won two races with the factory Ducati team in his two seasons with them, at Mugello in 2019 and then Le Mans last year. 2021 marks Petrucci’s 10th season in MotoGP.

“It’s my 10th year in MotoGP and to ‘celebrate’ this I will ride for KTM and I’m very proud about this. Tech3 KTM Factory Racing is one of the most competitive teams we have in MotoGP,” Petrucci said. “Last year they won two races, so I am really happy to race with them. We all have the factory support we need and in a really nice environment. I’m really, really curious to try the bike and get to know the people from the Tech3 team. I want to give some of my experience back to this factory.

“I know many race situations that can happen during a year and all the other three riders are all very fast and very competitive. I am the ‘most experienced’ but I want to be faster than them or I want to fight with them and share our opinion to let the bike grow. In the end to be satisfied with the season and to make all the KTM people and factory happy: this is the target. To be fast is the thing that matters the most.”

Petrucci joins Lecuona at the Tech3 team, with the young Spaniard competing in his first full premier class campaign last year. Lecouna secured a best result of ninth at the Red Bull Ring and Portimao.

He also finished 10th at the second race held at the Red Bull Ring and, after a difficult start to 2020, Lecouna showed real signs of progress in the premier class.

“This winter I have been working very hard on my preparation because MotoGP is a very physically demanding class and you need to be in perfect condition,” Lecouna said. “In 2021 I want to start at the same level that I reached towards the end of the season and then we will see how it goes.

“Everybody is strong, the level in the category is very high, but my team is working very good, the bike in 2020 has made a big step and I feel confident to show my best on the track.”

The 2021 MotoGP season, as it stands, will get underway at Qatar on March 28. The Losail International Circuit will also hold round two the following weekend and will be known as Grand Prix of Qatar.