KTM will continue with MotoGP in 2027 “if we can afford it”, says CEO

KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister has confirmed the company’s participation in MotoGP until the end of 2026, but admitted that what happens thereafter remains uncertain. 

The company says its sites – particularly Mattighofen and Munderfing in Austria – are to be secured in the long term following a loan from Bajaj, which was announced last week.

However, the future of its motorsport activities remains uncertain. KTM’s contract with MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports runs only until the end of 2026.

MotoGP commitment secured for 2026

“There are existing contracts that we will honour,” Neumeister told Salzburger Nachrichten. “I can’t speak now about all categories and classes across all brands, but let me make one thing clear: we will stick with motorsport.

“Personally, I’m a big fan of MotoGP and I believe a lot will change with Liberty Media entering as the new promoter.” 

While the European Union’s antitrust authority still needs to approve Liberty’s expected acquisition of Dorna Sports, many hope that the deal will improve the series’ marketing efforts.

KTM RC 16, Red Bull KTM Tech3

Photo by: KTM Images

Liberty has opened new markets for Formula 1 since it became involved in 2017. This applies in particular to the United States, which is also considered a growth region for MotoGP.

The question now is whether KTM will remain in the premier class over the long term. New technical regulations will come into effect in 2027, reducing engine displacement to 850cc. So far, no manufacturer has officially signed a contract to participate for the 2027–2031 period.

Asked if KTM will be part of the grid beyond 2026, Neumeister replied: “If we can afford it – but that’s something we’ll have to evaluate. If Liberty Media comes in, we can expect a lot more attention.

“Liberty will surely aim to organise more races in the United States, which is our most important individual market. So I would not make a decision to withdraw from MotoGP lightly – it must be carefully weighed up.

“There are many variables to consider. What will the new concept look like? What will the costs be? Will a budget cap be introduced?”

With a long-term future at KTM by no means guaranteed – and a competitive one even more doubtful – factory rider Pedro Acosta is understood to be close to making a move to escape his contract after 2026.

Pedro Acosta, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

Photo by: Gold and Goose Photography / LAT Images / via Getty Images

Meanwhile, KTM motorsport boss Pit Beirer said in a Dorna interview at last weekend’s British Grand Prix that Herve Poncharal’s independent Tech3 squad was not about to switch manufacturers in view of the ongoing uncertainty around KTM’s future.

“Our plans are currently very clearly focused on stabilising everything we are doing right now and building the future on that basis.

“So, there is no active plan to reduce to two bikes. Also, from a contractual point of view: we have four riders under contract. And we have a continuing agreement with our great partner Herve for another year.

“I would say: whatever the future brings for MotoGP, that new era only begins in 2027. Right now, we are in the middle of a contract period. We want to fulfil our obligations and really focus on racing. The family is complete, and Tech3 is part of it. That is also the plan for next season.”