Red Bull’s stance on buying KTM MotoGP team with Lewis Hamilton deal now unlikely

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KTM’s financial situation could lead to the end of the road for them in MotoGP, but the main question is when that will be.

Multiple names have been linked with a deal to save the team but no concrete deals have been made and there have only been whispers of discussions.

A takeover could save KTM from dropping off the grid, but Der Standard has reported that they could leave MotoGP at the end of 2026 if they fail to find a solution.

It would hand them an annual saving of £38 million (€46 million) as they fight to keep the company afloat.

Lewis Hamilton’s investment proposal will not materialise despite advanced talks for a deal, with the company wanting their entire operation to be saved and not just their racing division.

Red Bull is not a ‘serious candidate’ to save KTM

£43bn F1 manufacturer Mercedes are a candidate to save KTM given that current CEO Stefan Perier has been involved in their meetings since 2023.

They could bring the immediate cash injection that they’re looking for to pay their £2.4bn debt.

READ MORE: KTM exit could trigger MotoGP rider market ‘bloodbath’ and cost Ducati-linked star his seat

In theory, one of their main Formula 1 rivals, Red Bull, could also be interested.

They’ve got strong links with the team having been their title sponsor since they entered the category back in 2017.

Despite reports suggesting it could be the case, MotoMatters journalist David Emmett understands that they are not a ‘serious candidate’ to save KTM.

What will KTM’s current MotoGP rider line-up do?

Pedro Acosta is making moves amid KTM’s potential collapse with the 20-year-old aware of the dangers of being left without a ride.

After two terrific seasons, securing a factory ride would have felt like a great reward for the Spaniard but his future has now been hit with doubt.

Teammate Brad Binder is entering his sixth season with the team in 2025 and has been a consistent performer.

READ MORE: Brad Binder rues ‘critical issues’ KTM created and put MotoGP team in trouble

He has finished higher than sixth in the championship in each of his last four seasons and has been one of their bright sparks.

Both riders are out of contract at the end of 2026 which means their racing affairs are secure for as long as KTM’s commitment to racing remains strong, but beyond then, they may be forced to look elsewhere.