KTM CEO Stefan Pierer resigns after over 30 years in charge

Stefan Pierer steps down from KTM AG’s executive board following the company’s restructuring plan, marking the end of his leadership era.

A general view of the KTM logo during the Qatar MotoGP Official Test at Losail Circuit in Doha on February 19, 2024. Photo by Qian Jun/MB Media

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Stefan Pierer, the longtime CEO of KTM AG and a key figure in the brand’s global success, has resigned from the company’s executive board after more than three decades at the helm. His departure comes as KTM navigates a crucial financial restructuring plan that was approved by creditors last week, securing the brand’s future amid a prolonged financial crisis.

Pierer, who founded Pierer Mobility Group in 1987, has been a major shareholder and part of KTM’s management board since 1992. While he stepped down as CEO earlier this year, handing over leadership to Gottfried Neumeister, he had continued as co-CEO during the restructuring process.

On Tuesday, KTM AG confirmed that Pierer would be stepping down entirely from the executive board, although he will retain his role as co-CEO of Pierer Mobility AG.

Pierer: “Neumeister will lead KTM into the future”

In his farewell statement, the 68-year-old Pierer expressed confidence in his successor and his ability to guide KTM forward.

“I wish Gottfried Neumeister all the best from the bottom of my heart,” Pierer said. “In him, I have found the perfect successor, and I am firmly convinced that he will lead the company successfully into the future.”

Neumeister, in response, acknowledged the significance of continuing Pierer’s legacy at KTM.

“I would like to thank Stefan Pierer for his trust in allowing me to continue his life’s work,” he said. “I see it as an honor and an obligation to continue the history of KTM and to break new ground together with our great employees.”

As part of the leadership restructuring, KTM has also appointed Verena Schneglberger-Grossmann, the head of its legal department, to the executive board.

KTM secures financial future with restructuring plan

KTM’s future was in jeopardy after accumulating more than €2 billion in debt, forcing the company into a court-approved restructuring process. On February 25, KTM secured creditor approval for a plan that includes repaying 30% of its debts. Under the terms of the agreement, the company must pay €548 million by May 23. However, multiple investors have reportedly pledged up to €900 million in financial backing.

Production, which had been on hold during the winter months, is set to resume in mid-March. One of KTM’s key partners, Bajaj Auto—which holds a 49% stake in the company—has contributed a €50 million loan to help restart operations.

Uncertain future for KTM’s MotoGP project

While KTM’s financial restructuring is a major step forward, questions remain over the future of its MotoGP program. Speculation about a potential withdrawal first surfaced in December, but those discussions have since quieted.

The Austrian manufacturer struggled in the opening race of the 2025 MotoGP season, with rookie Pedro Acosta crashing out early in the Thai Grand Prix. Meanwhile, KTM’s top finisher, Brad Binder, crossed the line in eighth place, nearly 20 seconds behind race winner Marc Marquez.

As KTM moves forward under new leadership, the company faces a critical period in both its financial recovery and its ambitions in MotoGP.