After initially announcing plans to take a sabbatical from the GP paddock, Racestore KTM have had a change of heart and it’s good news – they will be back in action for the 2026 season.
The Italian-based outfit will shift their focus for the year ahead, stepping away from EMX125 racing to instead run a rider in the highly competitive EMX250 championship.
To spearhead their return, Racestore KTM have signed emerging Italian talent, Andrea Roberti. The 2026 campaign will mark a fresh challenge for the youngster as he transitions from the 125cc class into EMX250 – a significant step in his career. After previously developing on Fantic/Yamaha machinery, Roberti will now make the move back to KTM and looks set to benefit from the team’s know-how and structured support.
Adding even more strength behind the scenes, Emanuele Giovanelli – known for his time running the SM Action squad in the GP paddock – will join forces with Racestore KTM. His experience and leadership should be a valuable asset and it’ll be nice to see him back in the paddock.
With Roberti on board and a strong structure forming around him, Racestore KTM are gearing up for a promising 2026 season which will see them focus on the EMX250 series.
Paolo Mencacci (team owner):
We will do the EMX250 championship with the young rider of Andrea Roberti. We are happy to work with him because he has a lot to prove. A collaboration with Emanuele Giovanelli (SM Action) is also born, which will help us. This was an operation to stay in the paddock to be even stronger in 2027.
