Rick Elzinga will replace Mattia Guadagnini at KTM Van Venrooy and is set to make his debut with the team this weekend at Teutschenthal, host of round seven of the MXGP World Championship.
More news coming directly from the Teutschenthal paddock: Rick Elzinga has officially joined KTM Van Venrooy. The move also confirms the Dutch rider’s departure from Beta Factory, ending a short-lived partnership in which Elzinga failed to score points in any of the Grands Prix contested so far this season.
“I want to sincerely thank Betamotor, Lapo Bianchi, and the entire MRT Racing Team for the opportunity they gave me. We gave it everything we had, and while the results didn’t reflect our ambitions, I leave with no hard feelings and only respect for everyone involved.”
Now, Elzinga receives a fresh opportunity to reset his 2026 campaign. The opening came following an injury to Mattia Guadagnini’s right shoulder joint. According to the Italian rider himself, the area has caused him several issues in the past, meaning the recovery process could potentially sideline him for a large portion — if not the remainder — of the season.
There have been other similar changes within the paddock recently. Benoit Paturel is currently replacing Isak Gifting at JK Yamaha. Meanwhile, Jeremy Seewer and Ducati have officially parted ways. You can read more details about this here:
