Rivals block KTM request to open up engines amid breakdown woes

KTM is facing significant issues with the reliability of its RC16 MotoGP bikes, particularly with engine breakdowns, which have marred their performance in the first half of 2026. Motorsport director Pit Beirer has acknowledged these problems and requested special permission from rival teams to inspect the engines more closely. This move highlights KTM's desperation to understand and fix the underlying issues, but it's blocked by other teams. This situation underscores the competitive stakes in MotoGP, where even minor setbacks can have major implications for a team's standing.