KTM’s MotoGP Future: Dorna Negotiating New Contract

KTM’s MotoGP future remains uncertain amid financial struggles, but Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta confirms negotiations for a new contract from 2027 to 2031.

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The future of KTM in MotoGP has been a topic of concern as the Austrian manufacturer navigates a financial crisis. However, recent developments suggest that KTM may continue its presence in the premier class beyond 2026. Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta confirmed that discussions are underway for a new five-year contract.

KTM’s Financial Struggles and MotoGP Commitment

KTM faced significant financial turmoil in recent months, culminating in a restructuring plan that allows the company to pay only 30% of its staggering €2.2 billion debt. In December 2023, a creditors’ hearing revealed that KTM’s exit from MotoGP was part of cost-saving measures being considered.

Despite these concerns, KTM’s motorsport boss Pit Beirer stated during the brand’s 2025 MotoGP launch that plans for a 2027 engine—aligned with MotoGP’s switch to an 850cc format—were already in motion. This signalled that KTM remained invested in the sport despite financial challenges.

Dorna’s Support and Contract Negotiations

In a recent interview with motosprint.it, Carmelo Ezpeleta expressed both concern and confidence regarding KTM’s situation.

“I’m worried because I don’t like a team to be in this situation,” Ezpeleta admitted. “At the same time, I’m not worried about the racing sector and the brand’s participation in the world championship, absolutely not. On the contrary, we are negotiating right now with the KTM Group for the renewal of the agreement that will run from 2027 to 2031.”

With the current contract cycle ending in 2026, securing KTM’s continued involvement is crucial for MotoGP’s competitive balance. The Austrian manufacturer has rapidly evolved into a formidable force in the series, regularly challenging Ducati and Aprilia at the front.

Industry Support and Cost Concerns

KTM’s financial struggles have also sparked discussions on the overall cost of competing in MotoGP. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola emphasized in January that the series must learn from KTM’s situation and implement stronger cost-control measures to ensure long-term stability for all manufacturers.

MotoGP has previously introduced financial regulations and concessions to support struggling manufacturers. Further adjustments could be considered to prevent similar crises in the future.

Concession System Boosting Honda and Yamaha

Ezpeleta also touched on the impact of MotoGP’s revised concession system, implemented in 2024 to assist struggling manufacturers, particularly Honda and Yamaha.

Following a difficult 2023 campaign, both brands showed promising signs during winter testing and in the season opener in Thailand. While Ezpeleta does not believe they will surpass Ducati by the end of 2024, he is confident they will be much closer in performance.

“Yes, even if there is still a while to go,” Ezpeleta explained. “More to Honda than to Yamaha. But I’m sure that at the end of this year, they won’t be in front. Because Ducati and Aprilia are very strong and KTM is also at a high level. But the Japanese manufacturers will be closer.”

Looking Ahead

With negotiations ongoing, KTM’s presence in MotoGP beyond 2026 appears increasingly likely. However, financial stability remains a key factor in ensuring the Austrian brand’s continued participation. At the same time, the ongoing impact of the 2024 concession system could shift the competitive landscape. This would make for an even more unpredictable championship in the years to come.

As discussions progress, MotoGP stakeholders will be keen to see KTM secure its future while the series continues to evolve towards a more balanced and sustainable competition structure.