Italian manufacturer Fantic Racing could be set to change its approach to the MXGP paddock for the 2027 season, with the brand expected to focus on the EMX125 series rather than having a factory rider in the premier class.
Fantic entered the MXGP World Championship in 2024, initially with Louis Vosters running the factory setup for two seasons before JM Racing took over the programme for 2026. Over the past three seasons, Glenn Coldenhoff, Brian Bogers, Andrea Bonacorsi, Brent van Doninck, Alberto Forato and Jörgen-Matthias Talviku have all raced the Factory Fantic machinery in MXGP.
However, with JM Racing set to switch to Chinese manufacturer ZXMOTO for 2027, Fantic’s plans for the premier class appear to have taken a different direction.
No Fantic MXGP rider in 2027?
We understand that Fantic are unlikely to have a factory rider competing in the MXGP World Championship next season.
Following JM Racing’s decision to partner with ZXMOTO, it is thought that the Italian manufacturer had been looking for another team to take over its MXGP programme. However, a suitable arrangement has seemingly not been secured for 2027, potentially leaving Fantic without a presence in the MXGP World Championship.
The situation also leaves Alberto Forato and Brent van Doninck facing uncertain futures in the paddock. Both riders will be hoping to secure deals elsewhere to continue competing at the highest level of the sport next season.
While Fantic’s absence from the premier class would be a significant change, it doesn’t necessarily mean the manufacturer is closing the door on returning to the MXGP World Championship in the future.
SDM-Corse Racing to continue with EMX125 programme
Fantic will still have a presence in the Grand Prix paddock through their EMX125 programme with SDM-Corse Racing.
Young Danish talent Bertram Thorius is expected to remain with the team for 2027 and will be one of the riders to watch in the championship. After having a strong season this year, Thorius will enter the new season among the favourites for the EMX125 title.
The team will run either two or three riders under the awning in 2027. It is thought that Fantic will look to provide greater support for other riders choosing to compete on their machinery, even if they are not officially part of the factory team.
Development to continue on the Fantic 450cc?
Despite the expected absence of a factory Fantic rider in MXGP next season, development of the manufacturer’s 450cc machine is not expected to stop. Test riders are expected to remain involved in the development process as Fantic continue working on the bike. The manufacturer is understood to remain open to a return to the premier class in the future, meaning the potential 2027 absence could be more of a pause than a permanent withdrawal.
Continued development would allow Fantic to keep progressing its machinery while evaluating the best opportunity to return to the MXGP World Championship with a suitable structure in place.
A new Fantic 250cc machine in development?
Fantic have also previously competed in the MX2 World Championship, with David Braceras and Kay Karssemakers last representing the manufacturer during the 2024 season before their focus shifted towards MXGP. However, there could be another change on the horizon, with Fantic believed to be working on a new factory 250cc machine.
Such a project could open the door for the Italian manufacturer to return to either the EMX250 or the MX2 World Championship in the future. While the exact plans remain unclear, a new 250cc machine would give Fantic another potential route to strengthen its presence in the Grand Prix paddock.
For now, the immediate focus appears to be on the EMX125 category, where the partnership with SDM-Corse Racing is expected to continue.
Fantic are expected to announce their plans for the future soon, so as always, we’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.
