Grand Prix winner Dominique Aegerter will be lining up in a single-bike team at Kiefer Racing in 2018, with the German squad set to run KTM machinery with the Swiss rider. Team Manager Jochen Kiefer talked through the team's 2018 plans after a tough end to 2017.
"First of all we would like to express our gratitude for the great sympathy for Stefan 's death,” expresses Jochen Kiefer, Team Manager and Technical Director, who takes over the reins in the team following the tragic death of his brother Stefan late last season. “It was truly overwhelming how many people remained close to us during that difficult time and many thanks to all of them. 2018 unfortunately started with another setback. The deal with David Pickworth, who was wanting to buy the team, has unfortunately fallen through. The negotiations and talks were delayed for a long time, but in the end Mr Pickworth had to call off the deal. It’s a pity; it would have been nice if we could have continued with two riders. We are very, very sorry for Sandro Cortese. We’ve already worked with Sandro, in 2015, and had a good time with him. The signs for a further successful collaboration with him were very positive, and we nevertheless wish him much success in his future career.
“Nevertheless, thanks to the great response of our loyal fans, long-time sponsors and the responsible parties within the World Championship, Kiefer Racing will definitely remain a part of the Moto2 World Championship. That is certainly something Stefan would have wanted, so Kiefer Racing will contest the 2018 season with one rider. With Dominique Aegerter and KTM machinery we will certainly have a powerful package and will be capable of getting good results. The funding for this project has been secured through our longstanding partners as well as many new sponsors that Dominique has been able to bring on board. In addition, we still have advertising space available on the bike.
“Finally, thank you to the entire team for their support, patience and loyalty in recent months. I have personally received a lot of support during this difficult time and we are very sorry that due to the circumstances, everyone was not able to keep a place in the team. But we’re glad that we can finally get going again after a long wait, and we’re looking forward to the new challenge.”