MotoGP, Pedrosa at the Red Bull Ring: what to expect?

It was the 2018 German GP when Dani Pedrosa announced his retirement from racing, after thirteen years in the top class with Honda and after winning three world titles, one in 125 and two in 250. He just missed out on the ultimate prize, coming close to a reigning class title on three occasions, but has since been able to reinvent himself, working as a test rider. And now he will return to the racetrack, with KTM, for the Styrian GP, taking place this weekend at the manufacturer’s home track, the Red Bull Ring.

Significant growth for KTM

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Having split from Honda, he immediately embraced a new challenge, stepping up to assist KTM in the development of its new RC16. The Spaniard has clearly had a hand in the astounding growth of the Austrian bike, which achieved three wins last season and now has a great representative in the form of Miguel Oliveira. The Portuguese rider has scored three podiums to date this season, including one win, and is the rider best able to interpret the bike as things stand.

Expectations vs Reality

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But what will Dani Pedrosa be able to do in the Styrian GP? The man who has taken on, and even beaten, many of history’s motorcycling greats? This will be his first race in two and a half years and he’s competing as a test rider. It might be a little much to expect a solid result, but we’re not about to rule anything out. And we like the romantic idea of his return, albeit temporary. The little samurai who was unable to reap what he deserved, but who remains one of the strongest riders in history.

Translated by Heather Watson

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