Austrian motorcycle giant KTM is facing an unprecedented financial crisis. While the brand participates in the MotoGP championship, behind the scenes reveals an alarming economic situation. However, rumors that Red Bull co-owner Mark Mateschitz would provide financial assistance to KTM have been formally denied by the Pierer Mobility Group.
KTM is going through a delicate financial period, marked by a significant drop in the value of its shares and restructuring within the group Pierer
Mobility. Despite this, the Austrian manufacturer remains firmly committed to the MotoGP championship and its competition programs.
Since February 2022, the shares of
Pierer Mobilitythe parent company of
KTMlost 90% of their value. This situation led to drastic measures:
– Reduction of the board of directors : from six to two members.
– Layoffs : up to 300 job cuts planned.
– Temporary suspension of production : a possible two-month interruption in 2025 to raise around 100 million euros.
These decisions aim to stabilize finances without compromising the future of KTM in competition.
« There is no discussion about adding Mark Mateschitz to Pierer Mobility and KTM »
The newspaper Salzburger Nachrichten via Corsedimoto recently mentioned possible financial aid from
Mark Mateschitzco-owner of Red
Bullto support KTM. However,
Pierer Mobility denied these allegations: “ there is no discussion about adding Mark Mateschitz to Pierer Mobility and KTM. »
Despite this economic turbulence, KTM
continues to guarantee its 100% commitment to motorcycle sport, as stated Pit Beirersports director at KTM : « we stay in every series we participate in. We will do everything possible to stabilize the company and overcome this difficult phase together. »
A MotoGP, KTM will align in 2025 Pedro Acosta et Brad Binder in the factory team,
Maverick Viñales et
Enea Bastianini chez Tech3. Since his debut in MotoGP in 2017, KTM has progressed steadily, peaking at second place in the manufacturers' standings in 2024. However, the brand has not won a Grand Prix since 2022. This record encourages the team to redouble its efforts to return to the top.
In parallel, KTM decided to concentrate its efforts on its main brand, leading to the withdrawal of
Husqvarna in Moto3 and Moto2, and the removal of
SCRATCH at Tech3. Despite the challenges,
Pit Beirer remains confident: we learned to fight in sport. Let's give everything we have to get through this difficult time.
»
With an ambitious alignment of drivers for 2025 and a rigorous financial strategy, the coat of arms of
Mattighofen seems ready to face its challenges while maintaining its role as a key competitor in MotoGP. The coming months will be crucial to see if the brand can combine its sporting ambitions with a sustainable economic recovery.
