Remy Gardner has been confirmed as a MotoGP rider for next year, with KTM exercising the clause in his contract that gives him the option to join satellite team Tech3 for the 2022 season.
It’s been an open secret since last season in the paddock for some time that Gardner was set to get promoted to the premier class – and a strong start to 2021 that sees him leading the Moto2 championship race has led to today’s confirmation.
A previous Tech3 rider in the Moto2 class back when the team ran its own bike, he’s also another graduate of the Austrian manufacturer’s talent system – something that the team says made the decision an easy one.
“It’s a real pleasure for us to bring Remy to MotoGP next season because we knew about his speed and ability for Moto2,” said KTM motorsport boss Pit Beirer, “and he has confirmed that potential. We believe there is much more to come from him and it’s important he has this opportunity to keep growing.
“Remy is a typical racer. He’s super-determined and never gives up. He’s exciting to watch and we’re looking forward to working with him in this next step.
“Again, we’re also showing that the KTM GP Academy can give the right opportunity for riders that want to go all the way.”
Yet while the son of former world champion Wayne Gardner says that he’s delighted to sign for the team, there’s still a more important job to finish off first – winning the middleweight crown.
“I’m extremely happy that KTM have given me this opportunity. It’s a dream come true for me and what we have worked for up until this point.
“It’s an incredible chance for me and I cannot wait to ride the bike. I just want to thank KTM for believing in me.
“Right now we need to focus on finishing 2021 in a strong way. I want to thank also everyone who has supported me to reach MotoGP. We’re just getting started.”
The news means that at least one of Tech3’s riders is set to lose their ride, with Iker Lecuona the most likely after a slow start to the season.
However, with rookie Raul Fernandez also doing an impressive job in Moto2, there’s also talk that there could be a complete rider line-up switch.
