Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have announced the signing of Francesco Guidotti as new Team Manager. The Italian has made the shock switch across from Pramac Racing and will replace Mike Leitner, who was relieved of his duties last week.
The 49-year old Italian from Tuscany oversaw KTM’s Grand Prix entry in the old 125 and 250cc divisions for four years and then departed the world championship for a successful two-season stint in WorldSBK. For the last decade, he has been in control of Pramac Racing, helping the satellite squad to the Independent Team, Independent Rider and Rookie of the Year title in a remarkable 2021.
Francesco Guidotti: “I was a team manager for KTM from 2006-2009 and then took some valuable experience in another series before coming back to MotoGP. Now I am able to complete the circle! KTM have always been very ambitious and hungry with their racing programs and we can see that MotoGP is no different; it is incredible what they have achieved in such a short time and there is still much we can do. I’m very happy to be back and part of this big push for more success.”
Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “It’s a pleasure to have Francesco back with us and someone who knows our culture and way to go racing at KTM. We wanted to refreshen the MotoGP management structure and we feel that his input and ideas will give us some new momentum for our sixth season on the grid. With people like Francesco, Fabiano Sterlacchini, Hervé Poncharal, Jens Hainbach and Aki Ajo we know we have the best leadership to help us move ahead and make more MotoGP milestones for the company.”
