KTM may be set to exit MotoGP and its categories in 2026 amid the Austrian manufacturer’s ongoing monetary problems.
The first rumors of an imaginable exit gave the impression after a report via Alpenlandischer’s KreditoreNverband (AKV) published in mid-December after an assembly between KTM and its creditors.
The initial report stated that “in order to reduce costs, the exit from MotoGP, Moto3/Moto2 is planned”.
It has now been reported by Austrian newspaper Der Standard that KTM “wants to say goodbye to motorsport” in 2026, which is when the manufacturer’s contract with Dorna is set to end.
While KTM has released a pronouncement of its commitment to the 2025 MotoGP season, there has been no additional comment on the lengthy execution of its racing programme.
Der Standard also revealed that KTM Control expects “significant public damage” if you leave your racing program before this deadline.
Brad Binder is the only KTM rider who is through the 2026 season, while Pedro Acosta, Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales are all on “year” deals.
Analysis from the Boston Consulting Group suggests KTM’s future will be secure and notes that it could make an annual saving of €46 million by ending its grand prix programme.
In a report through the first hearing of creditors, it also revealed that several parties have expressed interest in making an investment of a combined €700 million in the ailing company.
These investment plans are set to be voted on by KTM’s creditors in February.
According to KTM boss Pit Beirer, the Austrian manufacturer has held extensive talks with seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton about a potential investment into the brand.
This is not the first time Hamilton has been rumored to be interested in a MotoGP team, with reports that he was looking to sign up for the Gresini Ducati team before this year.
Liberty Media bosses also confirmed that the Ferrari-bound driver was looking to become involved in MotoGP under the company’s ownership.
KTM insists the company continues to attract investor interest due to Liberty Media’s planned acquisition of MotoGP, which remains a matter for regulatory approval.
In an interview with Speedweek, Beirer said that there had been “concrete talks” with Hamilton’s management.
“I can say that we had very interesting conversations with his management,” Beirer told Speedweek.
“It is no secret that Lewis Hamilton is in MotoGP and thinks about his own team.
“Here too, there are concrete discussions. “
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