Johann Zarco has been dropped by KTM from its MotoGP squad for the rest of 2019, with the Austrian squad announcing test rider Mika Kallio as his replacement.
Zarco announced last month following the Austrian GP that he had requested an early relief of his two-year contract, with KTM confirming the two parties would split shortly after, although Zarco would complete the season.
The relationship between the Frenchman and KTM has continued to deteriorate since though as his struggles have continued, albeit looking slightly more competitive during the San Marino GP last weekend.
KTM announced today though that due to ‘developments and on-going work’ Zarco will step down from his race seat to make way from long-time test man Kallio, although Zarco will remain under contract until the end of this year.
"We have to make decisions to ensure that we use our resources in the best possible way and we are currently in a positive direction with our MotoGP structure,” explained KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer.
“We firmly believe that Mika can help us in this stage thanks to his knowledge and background. It is paramount that we verify our testing results in real race conditions to start our 2020 season in the best position.
“Mika has proved his ability on the RC16 and we are happy that he joins the line-up as a racer again.
“At the same time we want to express gratitude to Johann for his effort since he joined our ambitious project in November last year.
“We now have to think of the future and are making this step accordingly. KTM will continue supporting him until the expiry of our contract at the end of the 2019 and we truly wish him all the best for his future."
Kallio has made seven premier class appearances for KTM over the last three seasons, scoring a best result of tenth at the squad’s home round in Austria in ‘17 before repeating the feat at the Jerez event last year.
The Finn is one of several riders in the frame to take the second full time seat within the team for ’20 and beyond, with ex-KTM man Bradley Smith as well as current World Superbike rider Alvaro Bautista also reportedly interested in the berth.
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