Maverick Viñales has publicly expressed his frustration with KTM as uncertainty continues to surround his future in MotoGP beyond the 2026 season.
The Spaniard, who joined Tech3 KTM after leaving Aprilia for the 2025 campaign, finds himself in a difficult position as the rider market begins to take shape for 2027. Under the terms of his contract, Viñales has been unable to negotiate with rival teams until the end of June, leaving his future largely dependent on KTM's next move.
The Austrian manufacturer must soon decide whether to activate an option that would keep him at Tech3 for another season or release him into an increasingly competitive rider market.
Speaking at Brno, Viñales admitted the uncertainty has become increasingly frustrating, particularly given what he describes as a lack of clarity from the manufacturer.
"I've always shown my loyalty to KTM," Viñales said. "During the winter, I was told I would be in the factory team. Then I was told I would be at Tech3. Now I don't even know where I stand."
The four-time MotoGP race winner suggested he had opportunities to pursue other options but chose to respect the restrictions within his contract rather than explore alternative deals.
His comments come while he continues to recover from a shoulder injury sustained during last year's German Grand Prix, adding another challenge to an already complicated period in his career.
The situation became even more sensitive when KTM selected Pedro Acosta to participate in the upcoming Brno test for MotoGP's 2027 machinery. The session will provide riders with their first experience of the new 850cc prototypes and Pirelli tyres that will be introduced under the sport's next regulations.
Despite Acosta's expected move to Ducati in 2027, KTM chose the young Spaniard for the test, while Viñales was left out.
What disappointed Viñales most was not necessarily the decision itself, but how he learned about it.
According to the rider, he discovered through media reports that he would not be involved in the test and was not informed directly by the team beforehand.
The revelation has further fueled questions about communication between KTM and one of its most experienced riders at a crucial stage of contract negotiations.
Despite the uncertainty, Viñales made it clear that he still sees his future in MotoGP and has no immediate interest in moving to another championship.
"I don't see myself in World Superbikes," he said. "MotoGP is where I wanted to achieve everything."
Viñales has enjoyed race victories with Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia throughout his premier-class career, but success with KTM has so far remained out of reach.
With KTM facing important decisions regarding its future rider lineup, the coming weeks could prove pivotal for both parties. Whether the relationship can be repaired or whether another high-profile separation is on the horizon remains one of the key stories to watch as the 2027 market continues to evolve.
