Red Bull KTM are preparing for further changes behind the scenes ahead of the 2027 MXGP World Championship, with former Grand Prix rider Marc de Reuver rumoured to be in line for the role of being the team’s rider coach.
The Austrian manufacturer has already confirmed a significant change to its team structure, with Joel Smets to depart his position as team manager. Stefan Simpson, who previously held the role of technical manager, has been promoted to team manager for the 2027 season, replacing Smets.
However, further changes could be on the horizon, with de Reuver set to become an important part of KTM’s plans for the future.
KTM set to bring De Reuver on board?
We understand that one of the major changes by the Austrian outfit is the appointment of Marc de Reuver as its dedicated rider coach for the 2027 season.
Although the former Dutch Grand Prix winner has never been directly employed by the factory team in this capacity, he is no stranger to the KTM environment. De Reuver previously worked with Pauls Jonass during his time with the factory KTM team, helping the Latvian on his way to the MX2 World Championship title in 2017. More recently, Simon Längenfelder also turned to de Reuver last year after experiencing difficulties, with the Dutchman bringing his experience and knowledge to the German rider’s programme.
With de Reuver already familiar with KTM and its riders, a more formal role within the factory structure would make sense. If the move materialises, he is expected to work exclusively with the team throughout 2027, taking on a key role in developing its riders.
Längenfelder would continue working closely with the Dutchman, while Janis Reisulis is also expected to join the team. De Reuver could also be involved in working with Janis’ older brother Karlis Reisulis. Karlis is likely to race under the Van Venrooy KTM awning, although he is expected to have access to factory machinery.
De Reuver also has his own history with the Austrian brand as a rider. He raced for Champ KTM from the 2002 season through to 2006, making a potential return to the KTM family in a coaching capacity another interesting development in his career.
Ragni another KTM casualty?
The changes at KTM may not end with Smets, with long-serving team coordinator Valentina Ragni also reportedly facing an uncertain future within the factory MXGP operation.
Ragni has been an important part of KTM in the GP paddock since 2003, meaning she has spent more than two decades working closely with KTM’s GP riders and staff. However, it is understood that she is not expected to continue in her current position as team coordinator when the new structure comes into effect.
There is reportedly an opportunity for Ragni to remain with KTM in a more behind-the-scenes role, should she wish to accept it. Whether that option appeals to the Italian remains unclear.
Having spent so many years working directly with closely with GP riders, Ragni may prefer to remain involved in the paddock in a similar capacity. If a move away from KTM becomes a reality, a position with another team could be an option.
A new era for Red Bull KTM?
With Smets making way as team manager, Simpson stepping into the role and further changes potentially involving de Reuver and Ragni, KTM could look different behind the scenes when the 2027 MXGP season gets underway.
The reported appointment of de Reuver would give the team a dedicated rider coach with previous experience working alongside KTM riders, including a world champion in Jonass and the more recent collaboration with Längenfelder.
However, these reported moves remain unconfirmed, and KTM’s final team structure for 2027 is yet to be fully established.
