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MotoGP engine designer Kurt Trieb reported to be returning to KTM ahead of the 850cc era.
Kurt Trieb may make a quick return to KTM following a short stint with Honda’s MotoGP project. He played a crucial role in developing the RC16 engine since its debut in 2016 but left KTM to join HRC partway through the previous season. According to a report from Speedweek.com, Trieb is already on his way back to Austria, with the separation from Honda reportedly happening at his behest. While KTM did not provide a comment, Speedweek mentioned that Trieb, 62, is set to reprise his former position as the lead engine developer in the racing department after a brief hiatus. MotoGP is undergoing significant changes, with engine capacities set to decrease to 850cc starting in 2027, and KTM was the first to test an 850cc prototype at Jerez last December. Development activities are expected to ramp up as manufacturers pivot towards the new regulations in the upcoming months. Currently, KTM holds the third spot in the riders’ standings with Pedro Acosta and is also placed third in the constructors’ championship, overtaking Honda in the rankings.
