In a significant development for the MotoGP paddock, Remy Gardner, the Grand Prix-winning Moto2 star, is set to join the premier class next season. Gardner, the current leader in the Moto2 championship and a recent victor at the Italian Grand Prix, has been confirmed to ride one of the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing RC16s for the 2022 MotoGP season. This announcement marks the culmination of a successful career progression for Gardner, who will make his long-awaited debut in the top tier of motorcycle racing.
Gardner’s ascent through the ranks has been nothing short of impressive. With a background that includes a stint in Moto3 and five years in Moto2, his talent and potential have been evident throughout his career. The 23-year-old Australian has been a standout performer in Moto2, securing five podium finishes from six races this season while riding for Aki Ajo’s Red Bull KTM Ajo squad. His achievements have not gone unnoticed, and his success has paved the way for his promotion to MotoGP.
The move to MotoGP is a significant milestone for Gardner, who will take over a Tech3 KTM RC16 bike. This transition represents a key step in his development and aligns with KTM’s strategy of nurturing talent through its GP Academy. Gardner’s move also completes a full circle, as he joins a team that has been instrumental in the success of KTM’s MotoGP efforts. His father, Wayne Gardner, a former world champion, retired from the premier class of Grand Prix racing in 1992, adding a personal and historical dimension to Remy’s debut.
In his remarks, Gardner expressed his excitement about the opportunity: “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.” Gardner’s gratitude and anticipation highlight the significance of this career advancement and his readiness to embrace the challenges of MotoGP.
KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer also expressed enthusiasm about Gardner’s promotion: “It’s a real pleasure for us to bring Remy to MotoGP next season because we knew about his speed and ability for Moto2 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.” Beirer’s comments underscore the confidence KTM has in Gardner’s abilities and their commitment to supporting riders through their development.
Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team Principal, also welcomed Gardner with optimism: “We are very proud, happy and confident to welcome Remy. We believe he will be a strong asset to the KTM MotoGP line-up and I think having taken this decision is now going to help Remy to focus 100% on his Moto2 World Championship and will also help us, the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team to focus on our 2021 season. So, welcome back, Remy, keep on pushing and come to join us for your MotoGP adventure in 2022!”
As Gardner prepares for his MotoGP debut, the announcement marks a new chapter in his career and sets high expectations for his performance in the premier class. The combination of his talent, determination, and the support of KTM and Tech3 will undoubtedly make his transition to MotoGP an exciting journey to follow.
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