Luca Marini hailed as great KTM MotoGP

Fabio di Giannantonio believes Luca Marini can help KTM improve in MotoGP. The Italian rider has welcomed his compatriot's move to the Tech3 KTM squad for the 2027 season.

Di Giannantonio and Marini both started their premier-class careers on satellite Ducatis. Marini joined the VR46 team in 2021, with di Giannantonio arriving at Gresini Racing the following year. After Marini's switch to the factory Honda team, di Giannantonio took his seat at VR46. He has since achieved 17 podium finishes, including a victory at this year's Catalunya Grand Prix.

That performance secured di Giannantonio his own factory ride for 2027. He will partner Alex Marquez at the Red Bull KTM factory team. Meanwhile, Marini has secured his MotoGP future by becoming the first signing for Guenther Steiner's Tech3 KTM team.

Di Giannantonio praises Marini's impact

"I'm really happy for him," di Giannantonio told Crash.net regarding Marini's new deal. "I think it's great for MotoGP to have him on the grid." He expressed personal relief at Marini remaining in the championship, citing their friendship. Di Giannantonio also highlighted the value Marini brings to the KTM project.

"It's also a great signing for KTM because I think he can help us and can help the factory to improve the bike," he said. "He's a super fast rider, so I'm happy." Marini has demonstrated his speed with two pole positions and two podiums during his time with the VR46 Ducati team. He is currently the highest-placed Honda rider in the world championship, sitting 11th overall.

Technical feedback a key strength

Marini is frequently praised for his detailed technical feedback. Di Giannantonio confirmed this reputation, acknowledging Marini's superior skill in this area. "I would say that I'm a good rider at giving good, precise comments, but he is much better than me," di Giannantonio admitted. He noted that their training discussions are always informative.

"When we train together and we speak about racing, I always learn a lot of things from him," he said. This ability is seen as important for bike development, especially with new technical regulations on the horizon. Di Giannantonio concluded, "So I see it as a really great signing for KTM next year."

Acosta agrees on development value

Departing KTM rider Pedro Acosta also commented on the signing. He recognized Marini's proven performance and consistency. "He's a guy who made pole positions in VR46," Acosta said. "He's making good races with Honda, and it looks like he's quite stable during the season to develop a bike."

Acosta believes this makes Marini a strong asset for the Austrian manufacturer. "For this, I think KTM is getting a good line-up," he stated. The Tech3 team is expected to be completed by Moto2 race winner Senna Agius, who will partner Marini for the new 850cc era with Pirelli tires.