KTM Australia will field a factory desert racing team in 2014, confirming Ben Grabham and Ivan Long (pictured) to spearhead operation alongside off-road regular Toby Price.

KTM Desert Racing will contest the marquee Finke and Hattah epics, the WA Tri-Series, the Gascoyne Dash and selected major desert races as they arise.

“Our scope has evolved over the last two years with a calendar of desert races popping up and it makes sense for us to have our own team for the season,” said team coordinator Grabham.

“Longy we haven’t heard so much about yet, but this year he really came on strong as a privateer. For the team to help him with bits and pieces and give him access to all the great settings we use, we might see him on that Outright [Finke] podium next year.

“Toby is in his second year of a two-year deal with KTM and he wants to race everything. He’s capable of winning everything too, so it makes sense for all of us to let him try.

“He’ll have a very hectic schedule, but if he stays healthy it’ll work out better all-round having him in both teams.”

Between them, Price and Grabham have no less than six Finke Desert Race crowns, as well as multiple Australian Off-Road and Four-Day Championship crowns.

The KTM Desert Racing team will use registrable 500 and 450 EXC models for the season, equipped with Power Parts products.