Liberty Media as a game changer in MotoGP?
The imminent entry of Liberty Media as the new marketer of MotoGP from 2027 could mark a turning point. Neumeister definitely sees potential in this: “If Liberty Media comes, then you can expect a lot more attention.” As an example, he cites the development in Formula 1, where spectator numbers have doubled under the direction of Liberty – with a remarkable 50 percent of new female fans.
The US market would be particularly important for KTM. “Liberty would certainly also have plans to hold some races in the USA, which is our most important single market,” emphasizes the 47-year-old KTM CEO. A decision to withdraw from MotoGP, as recently speculated in the media, would therefore not be taken lightly.
Clear words against speculation
Rumors that KTM could withdraw from MotoGP or hand over free seats to Honda from 2026 onwards were dismissed as “nonsense” by Head of Motorsport Pit Beirer. Neumeister also reaffirmed the strategic direction: “Motorsport is the core of the KTM brand, it is part of our DNA.” According to Neumeister, motorsport and technological innovation are inextricably linked. Developments on the race track flow directly into series production – a success factor for the international brand perception from Buenos Aires to Bangkok.
Structural reform and investor strategy
In order to broaden its strategic positioning and offer potential investors a clearer perspective, the road racing division has been separated from the rest of the motorsport division. This measure is intended to improve clarity and facilitate investment decisions. Neumeister’s close confidant, Lukas Lauda, was on site at the Formula 1 in Imola in May – accompanied by Red Bull successor Mark Mateschitz, who also has close ties to KTM.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond
Neumeister makes a clear promise for 2026: “There are current contracts that we will honor. I say quite clearly: We will stick to motorsport.” For the time after that, i.e. from 2027, however, a precise examination of the framework conditions is necessary. Decisive factors include a possible new cost model, the introduction of a budget cap and the overall concept of the new MotoGP era under Liberty Media.
So even if we have to expect increased cost-cutting in racing in the future, KTM’s focus remains clearly motorsport-oriented. The KTM Group, secured by partners such as Bajaj and solid financial foundations, sees itself well equipped for the challenges ahead.
Motorsport as a brand pillar – even outside of MotoGP
Parallel to the MotoGP, the traditional Red Bull Erzbergrodeo is just around the corner – a KTM lighthouse event with international appeal. It exemplifies how strongly the off-road sector and competition shape the identity of the brand. In the future, KTM will continue to focus on a mixture of commitment to top-class sport and innovative strength in order to further advance both product development and its global presence.