It’s an open secret that Stefan Pierer, CEO and Board Chairman of Pierer Mobility AG, has been trying for a long time to buy the iconic Ducati brand from Volkswagen Group. After several fail attempts, Pierer set his eyes on another Italian legendary nameplate, MV Agusta, and last year, KTM acquired 50.1 per cent majority stake in the motorcycle company. Without mincing any words, the KTM boss has left the door open for MV Agusta to make a comeback to MotoGP. Currently, Pierer Mobility AG owns KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas, which has a MotoGP satellite team.
MotoGP: Bringing MV Agusta Back
In 2023, the KTM boss, Pierer, had stated that he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of bringing MV Agusta back to the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. Recently, all the ifs, buts and maybes were all put to rest when Hubert Trunkenpolz, CEO of MV Agusta, confirmed the Italian motorcycle manufacturer will be present in the 2027 season alongside KTM.
In an interview with GPOne, Trunkenpolz, shed further light on the engine, frames, aerodynamics and design plans for MV Agusta. To keep costs in check, Trunkenpolz said that MV will be powered by KTM’s new 850cc in 2027 after the introduction of the new MotoGP regulations. Furthermore, to distinguish the two motorcycle teams, the Italian company could have its unique aerodynamics, riding stance and even frames. He also cleared the air saying that KTM will continue to support the GasGas Tech 3 MotoGP satellite team.
When asked Trunkenpolz, why not introduce MV Agusta before 2027? “Our plan is to get MV Agusta’s business back on track from 2024 to 2026,” he replied. Earlier, Pierer Mobility AG had confirmed that the company wants to ramp up MV Agusta’s production capacity and increase its international presence.
MV Agusta: Take a trip down MotoGP memory lane
The return of the famous red, silver and gold colours will bring back many nostalgic moments. The Italian outfit were a juggernaut from the 1950s till the 70s before the company called it quits in 1976 due to financial troubles. In total, MG Agusta has won 270 Grand Prix races, 38 Riders’ Championship and 37 Constructors’ titles. The Italian motorcycle firm had also won the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy on 34 occasions.