KTM announced today as a step to strengthen it’s position in US Motocross and Supercross the appointment of Kurt Nicoll as the Racing Director for KTM North America.

KTM will appoint the company’s leading racing manager to head a new structure in the USA and is designed to lead KTM into the next phase of racing success. Kurt will additionally oversee the entire North American Off Road Racing divisions, including the race teams from KTM Canada.

“It is part of our commitment to the North American market to send our most professional racing manager there. North America is our most important market and Kurt is one who understands the KTM brand better than anyone,” stated KTM CEO, Mr. Stefan Pierer.

Kurt Nicoll said “With the recognition of the rapid growth and Worldwide influence of AMA Supercross and Motocross along with the growing presence of US-Off Road Racing in the global media, this move represents an exciting opportunity for me personally and a substantial beneficial for KTM across the globe.”

Kurt Nicoll will take the position as North America Race Director for an initial period of 2 years, to include race seasons 2007 and 2008. During that time KTM intends to enter into the 450cc Motocross class in 2007 and then the 450cc Supercross class in 2008.

Jon-Erik Burleson, President of KTM North America commented, "The addition of Kurt to our North American team represents our commitment to take KTM to the next step in our Ready to Race brand philosophy. His world wide experience and the strength of our global approach are integral in our desire to have KTM the dominant brand in Motocross and Off Road Racing.”

For the current season and the 2007 Supercross season KTM will concentrate it’s efforts in the Lites division, where Mike Alessi currently leads the AMA Motocross Championship.

Pit Beirer, who has worked very closely with Kurt for the last two years, will take over the responsibility for all Off Road Racing activities in Europe including Motocross, Enduro and Supermoto.”