Luca Marini is set for a major change in direction after confirming a move from Honda to Tech3 KTM for the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP seasons.
The switch brings an end to Marini's three-year spell with Honda and gives the Italian a fresh opportunity to rebuild his career with a team entering a new era under Guenther Steiner.
For Tech3, the signing represents an ambitious move as the team looks to strengthen its position on the MotoGP grid. Although Tech3 now has greater freedom when negotiating with riders, KTM's approval remains important because of the team's technical partnership with the Austrian manufacturer.
Marini was reportedly not an original target for Tech3, but the situation changed after his management approached Steiner during the Italian Grand Prix. Talks progressed from there, with discussions eventually involving KTM Motorsport boss Pit Beirer.
Marini is understood to have made a strong impression during the negotiations, particularly with his commitment and clear vision for the future. The agreement eventually paved the way for the 2027 and 2028 partnership, giving him a chance to start a new chapter away from Honda.
The half-brother of MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, Marini has steadily built his career through the world championship ranks. He made his full-time Moto2 debut in 2016 and spent five seasons in the intermediate class, claiming six victories and 15 podium finishes. His best championship result came in 2020 when he finished runner-up.
Marini moved into MotoGP in 2021 with VR46 Ducati, where he gradually established himself as a competitive rider. His strongest campaign came in 2023, when he secured two podium finishes, taking second at the United States Grand Prix in Austin before finishing third in Qatar.
Source: Motor Rider World
Those results established Marini as a rider capable of challenging near the front when given competitive machinery.
His career took another major turn in 2024 when he joined the factory Honda team, replacing Marc Marquez. It was a significant opportunity, but his time with HRC proved difficult as Honda continued to struggle with the performance and development of its MotoGP machinery.
Despite his efforts, Marini was unable to regularly challenge for podiums. His best results during the 2025 and 2026 seasons were fifth-place finishes at the Hungarian and Indonesian Grands Prix.
After three difficult seasons, the move to Tech3 KTM gives Marini the chance to reset and show what he can do in a different environment.
For Tech3 and KTM, Marini represents a calculated investment in experience, consistency and technical understanding. His methodical approach and ability to provide detailed feedback could prove valuable as the team works with the KTM RC16 and looks to move further up the MotoGP order.
Marini also arrives with proven podium credentials. If Tech3 can provide him with a competitive package, the team will be hoping he can rediscover the form that produced his breakthrough results with Ducati.
With Marini's place confirmed, attention now turns to who will occupy the second Tech3 KTM seat in 2027.
Australian rider Senna Agius is reportedly emerging as the leading candidate. The Moto2 rider has impressed with his consistency and potential and is understood to be the favourite to join Marini.
Manu Gonzalez has also been considered for the seat. The Spaniard is currently leading the Moto2 championship and has enjoyed an impressive season, but reports indicate that Agius is currently ahead in the race for the second spot.
If the expected move goes through, Tech3 could enter 2027 with a combination of Marini's MotoGP experience and Agius' emerging talent.
For Marini, the challenge will be clear. After a difficult chapter with Honda, he will be looking to prove that his podium-winning ability is still there and that a fresh start with Tech3 KTM can put his MotoGP career back on an upward trajectory.
