We know that KTM's situation is worrying. The company faces many challenges to return to growth. If the financial crisis has repercussions on the entire Pierer Mobility group, the consequences for the KTM team in MotoGP will also be notable. What should worry the new recruits Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini? For the latter, manager Carlo Pernat responds.
The group Pierer Mobilityparent company of
KTMis going through a critical period. After announcing a cost reduction plan and a significant drop in production,
KTM AG is now preparing a judicial recovery procedure. A net debt of 1.5 billion eurosplummeting sales, and more than 100,000 unsold motorcycles add to the dark picture. However, thanks to the support of partners like Red BullKTM seems determined to protect its commitment to MotoGP, even in this turbulent period.
According to the boss Stefan Piererthis procedure will allow KTM to continue operating under supervision while negotiating a restructuring plan with creditors. The company has 90 days to find a solution and strengthen the foundations of its future. The workforce will be reduced by 200
positions, while production has already been lowered by 25%.
This situation has a heavy impact on the stock market, with a drop in
16,48 % of the Pierer Mobility action. Motorcycle sales fell by 21,2 %and the electrically assisted motorcycle sector is also in crisis, with a drop in 26 % compared to the previous year.
Despite this crisis, KTM strives to preserve its MotoGP operations. The manager
Carlo Pernat declared that his pilot
Enea Bastianinirecently recruited by
KTMshould not be affected by financial turbulence thanks to the support of Red
Bull. « KTM aura four identical motorcycles and the first two will benefit from the latest developments », assured
Pernat.
« Enea Bastianini told me that the bike is a pleasure to ride and that he feels very good on it. He is really happy »
However, he also expressed regret over the conditions surrounding the signing of Bastianini : « When Enea signed, KTM seemed like the better choice leaving Ducati. But a few days later, Francesco Guidotti and Fabiano Sterlacchini were fired, which could have changed our thinking. »
Despite a fall during the Barcelona tests, Enea Bastianini delivered very positive feedback on the
KTM RC16. Although he is contractually prohibited from speaking before 2025, Pernat relayed his impressions: “ he told me that the bike is a pleasure to ride and that he feels very good on it. He is really happy. »
The strength of the team will lie in the combined experience of the engineers Alberto Giribuola et Manuel Cazeauxwho joined KTM after successes at Ducati et Aprilia. Pernat underlined the importance of this expertise: “ they bring a wealth of knowledge, and I think the team can derive great satisfaction from it. »
While KTM struggles to stabilize its financial situation, its MotoGP ambitions remain intact. The support of Red Bullthe talents ofEnea Bastianini et Maverick Viñalesas well as the technical expertise of their team, constitute major assets to face future challenges.
However, this crisis is a reminder that even big brands are not immune to difficulties, and that each strategic decision can have major repercussions on their entire ecosystem. The next few months will be crucial for KTMboth on the circuits and in his offices.
