The announcement of the inclusion of Deniz Öncü and Celestino Vietti in the Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 team for 2024 showcases the ever-evolving talent pool in the world of motorcycle racing. Both riders have impressive track records and potential, and their inclusion is anticipated to bring excitement to the upcoming Moto2 season.
Deniz Öncü
- Age and Achievement: At just 20 years old, Öncü’s accomplishments are remarkable. With victories in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and securing multiple podium finishes in Moto3, he has showcased his potential as a top-tier rider.
- Racing Style: Described as fast and aggressive, Öncü’s style could very well suit the more powerful Moto2 machines, offering the potential for an electrifying performance.
- Transition: Öncü’s switch to Moto2 after three years in Moto3 highlights his rapid ascent in the sport. Given the trajectory he has displayed so far, many would expect him to adapt quickly to the intermediate class.
Celestino Vietti
- Background: Vietti, with six GP wins split between the Moto3 and Moto2 classes, has shown versatility and adaptability in his racing style.
- Recent Performance: His three triumphs in the previous year and a podium in 2023 suggest he’s a rider who knows how to handle pressure and seize opportunities.
- VR46 Academy: Being a part of Valentino Rossi’s VR46 Academy is noteworthy. The academy is known to produce and nurture talents who eventually find considerable success in MotoGP. With his transition to the KTM GP Academy, Vietti is undoubtedly a rider to watch, carrying with him the pedigree of his training and the weight of expectation.
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Legacy:
The Red Bull KTM Ajo team has a legacy of cultivating champions, as showcased by impressive names like Oliveira, Binder, Martin, and Acosta. The team’s track record suggests that they have an eye for talent and know how to develop it. This makes the announcement of Öncü and Vietti’s inclusion all the more significant, as these two riders are joining a team that has a history of bringing the best out of its athletes.
Deniz Öncü: “I’m very happy to be moving up to Moto2 with Red Bull KTM Ajo. The main goal this season is to improve in Moto3 and get good results to fight for the title. We are doing really well together and have victories in Germany and Austria so far. I just want to thank Aki, KTM and Red Bull for their confidence in me and for this opportunity. Thanks also to my manager, Kenan Sofuoğlu, for always supporting me.”
Vietti
Celestino Vietti: “I’m super-excited. It’s a great opportunity for me so I am very happy about the news. I have to say thanks to KTM and Aki Ajo for believing in me. Also, thanks to VR46 Riders Academy Management, as without them none of this would be possible. We still have a way to go before the end of this season, so I have to finish this one the best way with my current team. They helped me to achieve many great results this year. It will also enable me to have the confidence to start the new season well. Thank you so much and see you in 2024.”
Aki Ajo, Team Principal: “The last few years in Moto2 have been very successful for us and of course, we have enjoyed working with all these different riders. This year with Pedro and Albert [Arenas] has been very intense and enjoyable; both have improved a lot, we have achieved many podiums and we are even top of the standings. Next year we have a new line-up: Deniz Öncü and Celestino Vietti.
I have to say that we are excited to have a great mix of experience in this class and young talent with Deniz, who we already know. I think this kind of combination is a really good chance for us to be very successful in Moto2 next year. Celestino has shown in the last seasons that he is one of the top riders in the class. Of course, we are very happy to have him on our team alongside Deniz, who is one of the fastest riders in Moto3. The combination will be great, and we are excited about it.”
Outlook for 2024:
Given the talent and potential of both riders, along with the expertise of the Red Bull KTM Ajo team, fans and followers of the sport can anticipate a thrilling 2024 Moto2 season. With the mix of established riders and rising stars, the championship promises to be unpredictable and exhilarating.
