Guenther Steiner revealed that choosing between Senna Agius and Manuel Gonzalez, his fellow Moto2 teammate and current championship leader, for a MotoGP seat next season was a very tough decision. Agius has been officially announced as a new Tech3 KTM MotoGP rider, joining Luca Marini, just before the Red Bull Ring race.
Steiner explained to MotoGP pit lane reporter Jack Appleyard in Austria that the team recognized significant potential in Agius to become a major figure in MotoGP, and they felt fortunate to secure him as there was strong interest from other teams. The plan is to combine the seasoned experience of Luca Marini with Senna’s fresh talent from Moto2. Steiner also noted that next year is ideal for introducing a rookie because the performance gap between Moto2 and next year’s MotoGP bikes is smaller, and Agius already has experience with Pirelli tires.
Despite four riders making the leap from Moto2 to MotoGP next season, Gonzalez will not be one of them due to Tech3’s decision. Age was a deciding factor, with Agius being 21 while Gonzalez is 24. Steiner admitted it was a very difficult choice since both riders are exceptional, but Agius’ younger age gives the team more time to develop him.
Agius’ promotion also ensures Australia will continue to have a presence in MotoGP at the upcoming inaugural Adelaide race, despite Jack Miller leaving the class for WorldSBK. Steiner said that while Australia loses Miller, Agius will be the sole Australian representative, which should make going home as a MotoGP rider especially meaningful. He joked about the excitement and pressure Agius might face with the new Adelaide event hype, emphasizing the importance of keeping the young rider focused.
Agius made his MotoGP debut during Monday’s Pirelli test at the Red Bull Ring, reportedly just 0.4 seconds behind current Tech3 rider Maverick Vinales. Both were said to be riding modified 1000cc KTM bikes rather than the 850cc prototypes.
Fan Take: This move is significant for racing fans as it highlights Tech3’s commitment to nurturing young talent, which could bring fresh energy and competition to MotoGP. Agius’ entry also helps maintain Australian representation in the top class, adding extra excitement for fans at next season’s Adelaide debut.
Source: www.crash.net
