KTM has announced that its factory MX1 and MX2 motocross teams will involve just four riders, two in each class, for the 2007 FIM World Championships.

The Australian marque tempted former world champion Sebastien Tortelli back from the AMA to attack the MX1 title alongside fellow former title winner Mickael Pichon and rising star Jonathan Barragan.

However, Barragan was soon left to carry KTM's hope alone as the Frenchmen were sidelined by injury (Tortelli) and illness (Pichon). Pichon later announced his intention to retire, but Tortelli's future is less clear as the re-signed Barragan will now be joined in the MX1 set-up by KTM's MX2 championship contender David Philippaerts.

"I am happy to be going to MX1 with the team," said the Italian who has claimed six moto wins and four overall victories in 2006. "I was pushing Pit (Beirer) a lot to give me an MX1 bike!

"I hope to do a bit of testing with the 450 in Belgium and maybe some other national races," he added. "MX1 will be exciting next year. Coppins will be fast and people like Ramon, Strijbos and Leok have experience in the class whereas for those like myself, Pourcel and Mackenzie it will be our first season in MX1. It will be tough but I am already looking forward to it."

No mention has been made of Tortelli's future, but the Frenchman - who intended to return to the AMA in 2007 - may remain in KTM colours if he can reach a deal for to ride for their American team.

Meanwhile, KTM's factory MX2 line-up sees Tyla Rattray retained (see separate story) but joined by rising star Tommy Searle; the 17-year-old Briton having signed a two year deal.

The current Molson Kawasaki rider has turned heads in his debut campaign on the international stage with a slew of top ten results and two podiums from his first twelve grands prix.

"I am happy to have signed with KTM," he said. "You can see from their record of wins and Championships that their factory team is one of the best. I am looking forward to working with them; KTM is where I want to be."