Marco Bezzecchi
KTM are insisting that it’s business as usual as they prepare for the start of the 2025 MotoGP season. The season-opening Thailand Grand Prix is now just one week away.
On the surface, it’s an exciting time for the Austrian brand. They’ve promoted Pedro Acosta, one of the most exciting MotoGP rookies for a generation, to their factory squad alongside Brad Binder.
Satellite squad Tech3 have also revamped their line-up. Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini arrive from factory teams Aprilia and Ducati with 17 combined premier-class victories.
KTM view Tech3 as an extension of the top team, rather than their second-in-command. They’ve boasted about having the best depth of any manufacturer.
But in the background, there is serious uncertainty. The motorcycle company – not the racing division – has accumulated billions of pounds of debt.
On Tuesday, there will be a vital vote on a potential restructuring plan. The outcome could determine the mood in the garage in Buriram and, more importantly, their participation in the 2026 world championship.
Where investors stand on KTM as Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder await news
One month ago, a share in Pierer Mobility AG, KTM’s parent company, was worth 15.78 CHF (£13.86). As of 20 February, the price has increased to 19.50 CHF (£17.13).
Even in the past five days, the price has ticked up from 18.40 (£16.16). It’s reached its highest point since mid-October.
According to GPOne, this is ‘a clear indication’ that investors ‘firmly believe’ in the future of the KTM. Their slogan is ‘Ready to Race’, so they’re determined to keep their motorsport division going in any restructure.
KTM has as many 40 riders under contract across multiple disciplines. Acosta visited the factory for an update during the off-season, and was satisfied with what he heard.
Lewis Hamilton’s position on KTM investment after reported talks
Clearly, KTM’s rival manufacturers want them to survive. It wouldn’t paint a healthy picture if they dropped off the grid, even if it was for reasons beyond their control.
Suzuki walked away from the sport at the end of 2022, despite winning the world championship with Joan Mir just two years earlier. Tech3 could theoretically find a new home, but that would still leave two vacant places.
Lewis Hamilton might be interested in KTM’s grid spots, hence his reported talks with the team. The Formula 1 superstar would then be able to sell the spots to an interested party, should they become available.
If KTM are lost, then their riders would shake up the market. Ducati stablemates VR46 have made the first moves to sign Acosta, though they could pursue that deal regardless of his team’s future.
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