MotoGP legend Dani Pedrosa is set to return to the track as he prepares for a private test with KTM, currently planned for mid-April. The Spanish rider will be on track for two days between April 8-11, weather permitting, as he helps fine-tune the RC16 bikes ahead of the first official test of the season, scheduled for April 28 in Jerez.

Pedrosa will share the track at Misano with KTM’s riders—Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Enea Bastianini, and Maverick Viñales—putting an end to long-standing rumors about a potential split between Pedrosa and the Austrian manufacturer. Speculation about tension between the two gained momentum after the unusual absence of Pedrosa’s personal sponsor logos during his DAZN broadcast appearances.

Despite the uncertainty, Pedrosa remains a key part of KTM’s MotoGP project, balancing his duties as a development rider with his role as a DAZN commentator for Spanish viewers. While concerns over KTM’s financial stability have loomed since last year, Pedrosa and test rider Pol Espargaró have remained actively involved with the manufacturer, both having participated in the Sepang shakedown test.

KTM reaffirmed their commitment to Pedrosa by extending his contract for another season on November 12, just ahead of the final 2023 race in Barcelona. However, his absence from the following official test only fueled further speculation about his future with the team.

Although fans would love to see Pedrosa back in full racing mode, a wildcard entry for the 2025 season looks highly unlikely. His last competitive race was at the Spanish Grand Prix in 2023, where he secured third place in the sprint race.

For now, Pedrosa’s future remains focused on KTM’s development program. Whether he lines up on a race grid again or not, his influence on the sport remains as strong as ever.