KTM team manager Francesco Guidotti steps into big shoes: factory rider Miguel Oliveira explains what it’s like without Mike Leitner in the pit
KTM has hired a new team manager after last year’s mixed MotoGP season. Mike Leitner had to make way for Francesco Guidotti, who moved from Pramac-Ducati to KTM and is a breath of fresh air in the Austrian team. But what is it like in the pit of the KTM factory team without Leitner?
“For me, not much has changed,” says factory rider Miguel Oliveira, who is aware of how much responsibility the team manager has: “This position is very important. It’s about directing the different team members and motivating the riders in some situations.”
“Francesco is still very new to the team. That means we have to build a bond with each other first, whereas I knew Mike for many years. It’s different when someone is new. Then certain adjustments are necessary,” Oliveira notes. “But he is a big gain and a great guy. He is very important for us. “