Maverick Viñales publicly shared details of the tension he experienced with Tech3 KTM team boss Guenther Steiner following the Dutch MotoGP weekend in Assen. The 10-time MotoGP winner explicitly stated that Steiner had referred to him as a "beggar" in some of his comments.
Background of the tension
Last weekend in Assen, Viñales stated that KTM's decision not to include him in their 850cc prototype test in Brno was a clear indication that he would not be part of the team in 2027, and he held only KTM responsible. Responding to these statements, Steiner said that such an attitude was "not the smartest thing to do" for a rider seeking a seat.
Viñales, speaking at a Spanish-language media briefing in Assen, commented on Steiner's remarks: 'I think his words were misinterpreted, but in some of his statements he did indeed call me a "beggar." I have nothing more to add; my only focus right now is trying to stay strong and heal my shoulder as quickly as possible. The further I can progress, the better I will feel.'‘
2027 squad and physical condition
Viñales reiterated his concerns about not being able to secure a place on the 2027 grid. "I have nothing at the moment; yes, that's how I feel," said the driver, clearly explaining why he isn't enjoying racing: "I lose half a second in just four corners; I don't feel good about that."‘
Viñales, who has been carrying the effects of a shoulder injury he sustained in Germany last season throughout this season, had his promotion to the factory KTM roster suspended due to his inability to complete his recovery. His strong performance in the first half of last season had led to expectations of a move to Red Bull KTM, but KTM seems to have eventually placed Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio in the factory seats instead.
With his chances of retaining his place in Tech3 dwindling, Viñales is reportedly currently in talks with Luca Marini from Honda and Senna Agius, a strong contender in Moto2. Viñales, however, emphasizes that his focus is on improving the physical condition of his shoulder.