Rivals block KTM request to open MotoGP engines due to breakdowns

KTM is facing significant issues with the reliability of its RC16 MotoGP bike, especially in the first half of 2026, highlighted by a dramatic crash in Barcelona. The manufacturer has requested special permission to investigate these problems, but rival teams are opposing this move due to concerns about the inherent unreliability of KTM's engines. This resistance underscores the intense competition and the high stakes involved in MotoGP, where even minor mechanical failures can have a huge impact on race outcomes and team standings. The situation highlights the delicate balance teams must maintain between innovation and reliability.