Image: Supplied.

Fantic Factory Racing will be operated by JM Racing in the 2026 MXGP World Championship, signing Alberto Forato and Brent Van Doninck.

The Italian manufacturer will continue its presence in MXGP following a breakout season that resulted in seven podium finishes, a maiden moto win and third overall in the standings with Glenn Coldenhoff.

From 2026, the factory effort will be led by the experienced JM Racing team of Jacky Martens, with Forato and Van Doninck set to pilot the factory Fantic XXF 450s as the brand enters a new chapter, while Fantic Factory Racing EMX will also feature a refreshed line-up.

“I am very happy to make the move to Fantic – back in the position where we want to be: a factory team working closely with R&D to further improve the bike,” Martens explained. “Fantic has already proven to be competitive, with really strong results this past season, but this is a new challenge and it comes with new motivation.

“After spending our first few days meeting everyone at the factory in Italy, I have a very good feeling that we can build a great future with Fantic Factory and JM Racing. I am also really happy with our two riders – I had already spoken to Alberto a few times in past years, but we never found the right opportunity to work together, so I am very pleased that he is joining us now.

“Everything looks positive and I look forward to seeing him on the bike soon. Brent has already been with us for three years, he had some setbacks, but now he is injury-free, which is very important. I think with these two riders we have really good potential.”

The 2026 MXGP World Championship is set to kick off on March 8th with the MXGP of Argentina.