KTM denies MotoGP exit rumors as financial struggles continue

KTM reaffirms its commitment to MotoGP despite financial challenges and uncertainty over its 2026 contract.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Spanish rider Pedro Acosta (C) high-fives a team member before the free practice 2 session of the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit in Buriram on March 1, 2025. Photo by Mohd Rasfan/AFP

By Randy Ahmad and Adila Ghina

KTM has addressed speculation surrounding its future in MotoGP, releasing a strong statement through the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung. The Austrian manufacturer has faced financial difficulties since November 2024, leading to concerns that it may not extend its contract in MotoGP beyond 2026. However, KTM has now reaffirmed its racing commitment, insisting that its financial troubles will not dictate its exit from the sport.

KTM’s financial troubles and MotoGP future

The financial situation surrounding KTM has been a growing concern for months. In November 2024, the company entered self-administration following a severe financial crisis. This restructuring measure was necessary to stabilize the manufacturer’s economic standing, but it also sparked uncertainty regarding its long-term plans, including its involvement in MotoGP.

Reports emerged suggesting that KTM was considering an early withdrawal from the championship. While the team’s debt administrator later clarified that an immediate exit was not planned, they acknowledged that KTM’s current contract with MotoGP, which runs until the end of the 2026 season, might not be extended due to cost-cutting measures.

This statement fueled speculation, with many questioning whether KTM could sustain the financial burden of competing in MotoGP while undergoing internal restructuring. However, despite these uncertainties, KTM has continued to operate at full capacity in the 2025 season, with its factory and satellite teams competing as planned.

KTM’s firm response to speculation

Amid growing rumors, KTM has now issued a strong public statement under the headline “Passion never goes bankrupt”, addressing concerns about its future. In the statement, the company acknowledged its financial difficulties but dismissed the notion that it would abandon its racing ambitions.

KTM’s response emphasized resilience, using a racing metaphor to describe its current situation. The company likened its financial struggles to a crash on the track—something that happens in racing but does not define the outcome. The statement reinforced the team’s philosophy of always pushing forward, regardless of setbacks, and highlighted KTM’s core values of passion, determination, and commitment to competition.

The company also stated that it had learned from past mistakes and was taking steps to ensure a stronger and more transparent future. KTM affirmed that it would not only work toward financial stability but also maintain its racing ambitions in MotoGP, despite the challenges ahead.

The impact of KTM’s struggles on its MotoGP project

While KTM has reassured fans and stakeholders about its commitment to MotoGP, its financial struggles remain a key issue. Competing in the premier class of motorcycle racing requires significant investment, from research and development to maintaining a competitive team. Any financial instability could impact the team’s ability to keep pace with rivals such as Ducati, Honda, and Yamaha.

However, KTM’s current MotoGP project remains strong. The manufacturer has made significant progress in recent years, establishing itself as a competitive force in the championship. With riders such as Brad Binder and rookie sensation Pedro Acosta, the team has high expectations for the 2025 season.

Acosta, in particular, has expressed confidence in KTM’s ability to navigate its financial situation without affecting its racing ambitions. The young Spaniard, widely regarded as one of MotoGP’s most promising talents, recently stated that the team’s current situation does not impact the riders and that he remains focused on achieving strong results in his debut season.

KTM’s technical progress has also been evident, with continued development of its MotoGP bike. Despite financial limitations, the manufacturer remains committed to improving its machinery and challenging for podium finishes. The team’s partnership with Red Bull further strengthens its position, providing financial backing and additional resources to support its racing efforts.

KTM’s next steps in MotoGP

While KTM’s latest statement reaffirms its dedication to MotoGP, the question of whether the team will extend its contract beyond 2026 remains unanswered. The company’s financial recovery will play a crucial role in determining its long-term future in the championship.

For now, KTM is focused on the immediate task of competing in the 2025 season and proving its ability to remain a strong contender despite internal challenges. The manufacturer’s commitment to transparency and engagement with its customers and employees suggests that it is taking a strategic approach to overcoming its financial difficulties.

As MotoGP continues to evolve, the presence of multiple manufacturers remains vital for the championship’s competitiveness and appeal. Losing a brand like KTM would be a significant blow to the series, especially considering the progress the team has made in recent years. The company’s latest statement indicates that it is not ready to step away from the sport, but rather to push forward with renewed determination.

KTM’s resilience in the face of adversity will be tested in the coming months. If the team can maintain strong on-track performances while navigating its financial challenges, it may secure its place in MotoGP for the long term. Until then, speculation will continue, but one thing is clear—KTM is not giving up on its racing ambitions without a fight.