In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the MotoGP paddock, Ducati Corse General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna has publicly accused KTM of using an illegal engine configuration during the 2025 MotoGP season, labeling it as “cheating.” The bombshell revelation, made during a heated press conference following the Austrian Grand Prix on August 17, 2025, has intensified the rivalry between the two manufacturers and raised serious questions about the integrity of the sport. Adding fuel to the fire, FIM President Jorge Viegas issued an immediate statement confirming that an investigation is underway, lending credibility to Ducati’s claims and plunging the championship into controversy.

The accusation centers on KTM’s RC16 bike, which has shown remarkable performance gains in 2025, particularly with rider Pedro Acosta challenging Ducati’s dominance. Dall’Igna presented technical data suggesting that KTM’s engine exceeds the permitted specifications under the 2025-2026 engine freeze regulations, which prohibit significant engine development to control costs. According to Ducati’s evidence, KTM allegedly modified critical components to boost power output, violating the homologation rules set by the FIM. “We’ve been monitoring their performance, and the numbers don’t add up,” Dall’Igna stated. “This is not about competition; it’s about fairness. We cannot allow cheating to undermine MotoGP.”

The timing of the accusation is particularly explosive, as KTM has been closing the gap on Ducati, who have dominated the 2025 season with riders Marc Márquez and Francesco Bagnaia winning 12 of the 14 Grands Prix so far. KTM’s resurgence, led by Acosta’s podium finishes and the addition of experienced riders Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini to their Tech3 team, has been a bright spot in an otherwise Ducati-heavy championship. However, Ducati’s claims suggest that KTM’s gains may have come from illicit means, casting a shadow over their achievements.

FIM President Viegas responded swiftly, confirming that the governing body had received Ducati’s evidence and initiated a formal investigation. “We take these allegations very seriously,” Viegas said in a statement on August 18, 2025. “The FIM is committed to ensuring a level playing field, and we will conduct a thorough review of KTM’s engine to determine compliance with the regulations.” The confirmation has sparked widespread debate, as a guilty verdict could result in severe penalties for KTM, including points deductions or even disqualification from the 2025 season.

KTM’s leadership, including CEO Stefan Pierer and Head of Racing Pit Beirer, vehemently denied the allegations, calling them a “desperate attempt” by Ducati to maintain their dominance. Beirer pointed to KTM’s financial struggles, reported widely in late 2024, as evidence that the team lacked the resources to undertake such sophisticated rule-breaking. “We’ve been transparent with our development,” Beirer said. “Our progress comes from hard work and rider talent, not from cheating.” Pedro Acosta, who finished second at the Austrian Grand Prix, expressed frustration, stating, “I ride the bike they give me. I trust my team, and I’m focused on racing.”

The controversy has reignited discussions about the challenges of policing technical regulations in MotoGP, especially during an engine freeze. The 2025-2026 rules were designed to reduce costs amid KTM’s financial difficulties and other manufacturers’ concerns, but they have also created a gray area where teams push the boundaries of what’s allowed. Ducati’s own dominance has not been without scrutiny, with rivals questioning their aerodynamic innovations, though no formal violations have been proven.

Fans and analysts have taken to platforms like X to voice their opinions, with some accusing Ducati of trying to destabilize KTM, while others demand accountability if the allegations are true. The investigation’s outcome could have far-reaching implications, not only for the 2025 championship but also for KTM’s future in MotoGP, as reports suggest they may exit the sport by 2027 due to financial constraints. A penalty could exacerbate their challenges, potentially alienating riders like Acosta, who has been linked to Ducati for 2026.

As the MotoGP circus moves to the Hungarian Grand Prix, all eyes will be on the FIM’s investigation. The sport has seen controversies before, but rarely have they involved such direct accusations between top manufacturers. Whether KTM’s engine is found to be non-compliant or Ducati’s claims are dismissed, this saga has exposed the fierce competition and high stakes in MotoGP. For now, the paddock waits anxiously for answers, knowing that the outcome could reshape the championship and the sport’s future.