KTM bosses ‘instructed’ Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta not to do one thing at 2025 MotoGP launch

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KTM became the latest MotoGP team to launch their 2025 bikes on Thursday. This was, in effect, the official unveiling of Pedro Acosta.

KTM were joined under the studio lights by satellite squad Tech3, Acosta’s former team. They wanted to paint them as an extension of the factory outfit, rather than a subordinate entity.

That’s partly why KTM and Tech3 are running almost identical liveries this season. The latter’s title sponsorship with GASGAS has ended, with both bikes now adopting Red Bull colours.

KTM have arguably put together the strongest rider line-up on the MotoGP grid. Acosta has been called the next Marc Marquez, while Brad Binder, Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales have all won multiple races in the premier class.

However, the excitement around the riders has been decidedly overshadowed by the company’s wider crisis. KTM owe their creditors billions of pounds.

This could threaten their participation in motorsport going forward. They’re committed for 2025, but there’s uncertainty about ’26 and above all the new rules cycle in ’27.

Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta warned not to discuss KTM financial crisis

KTM held their launch virtually, unlike rivals Ducati and Aprilia. There’s no indication this was a cost-cutting measure.

Afterwards, their riders appeared before the media in remote press conferences. But according to The Race, they weren’t ‘at liberty’ to discuss KTM’s dire financial situation.

Instead, the media were asked to direct these questions to motorsport director Pit Beirer. The team have maintained that their prospects this season won’t be adversely affected.

The report adds that Acosta, Binder and co. were ‘instructed not to talk’ about the issue. As such, they ‘didn’t bring it up of their own volition’ when they faced questions.

KTM have received hidden ‘good news’ in fight to stay on MotoGP grid

Acosta visited the KTM factory over the winter, along with his manager. The board reassured him of their commitment to racing, so he didn’t feel the need to go back.

But worryingly, former team manager Francesco Guidotti says ‘performance is not the priority’ for KTM in 2025. Their bigger concern is ‘keeping the company afloat’.

It was recently confirmed that former CEO Stefan Pierer has left his post. One journalist believes Pierer’s exit is ‘good news’ for KTM, suggesting he would never have found the solution.

The Austrian squad are on track this weekend at the Sepang shakedown. Due to concessions rules, their full-time riders won’t be taking part.