Guenther Steiner, former Haas Formula 1 team principal, has officially completed the $23 million acquisition of the KTM customer team, Tech3, in MotoGP. The Italian motorsport figure had been publicly pursuing involvement in MotoGP over recent months, seeing potential for growth in the sport under new ownership. The deal was finalized in partnership with Apex Capital, a global investor in sports and athletes.
Steiner’s transition to MotoGP ownership follows his notable career in Formula 1, where he gained widespread recognition while managing the Haas F1 team. His persona was popularized through the Netflix documentary series Drive to Survive, which helped cement his reputation among racing fans worldwide. After his contract with Haas was not renewed following the 2023 season and subsequently replaced by Ayao Komatsu, Steiner shifted towards new ventures in motorsport, including this investment in MotoGP.
The Role of Liberty Media and the Changing Landscape of MotoGP
This acquisition marks a significant milestone shortly after Liberty Media, the F1 owners, completed their $5 billion takeover of MotoGP’s commercial rights from Dorna. The American group, credited with revitalizing Formula 1’s popularity over the last decade, now aims to replicate that success by elevating MotoGP on a similar scale. Steiner’s entry into MotoGP ownership aligns with this new wave of interest and investment in two-wheel racing.
Guenther Steiner Shares Insights on His MotoGP Investment
In earlier interviews, Steiner openly acknowledged his pursuit of Tech3, describing his fascination with MotoGP and its future potential. Speaking to The New York Times, Steiner explained:
“I’ve looked into it, I speak with quite a few people. I don’t want to deny it. I mean, I would be stupid to deny it, but no, it’s not done. But I’m working (on it). I always work on projects my whole life and (find) things to do. So, that is one of them because I find (MotoGP) very interesting.” —Guenther Steiner, former Haas F1 team principal
“Also, a sport which has got a lot of potential to grow because the sport is fabulous — the racing is pretty cool! “What these guys are doing is bonkers. And I just saw an opportunity.” —Guenther Steiner, former Haas F1 team principal
Steiner further emphasized the sport’s growth prospects, comparing MotoGP’s future to what Formula 1 has achieved under Liberty Media’s leadership:
“I think (MotoGP) has got a lot of potential to grow as a sport — a little bit like F1 did. There is a lot of potential there to attract more fans because it’s such a good sport.” —Guenther Steiner, former Haas F1 team principal
“I think the sport will grow anyway, with or without Liberty, to be honest. So, I believe in it with or without Liberty. Obviously, Liberty, what they did with F1 is fantastic. And I think they could help make MotoGP bigger for sure.” —Guenther Steiner, former Haas F1 team principal
Broader Interest in MotoGP Ownership Among Motorsport Figures
While Steiner’s acquisition has garnered significant attention, he is not the only prominent motorsport figure drawn to MotoGP. For instance, Ferrari and Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has previously expressed interest in becoming a MotoGP team owner, showing that the sport’s appeal extends beyond traditional two-wheel racing circles. This growing involvement from individuals connected to the F1 world reflects the rising interaction between the two sports amid ongoing commercial expansions.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Strategic Investment on MotoGP’s Growth
Steiner’s purchase of Tech3 signals a new era for MotoGP, blending experienced leadership from Formula 1 with the sport’s inherent excitement. As Liberty Media and investors like Apex Capital increase their focus on motorcycle racing, it is likely that MotoGP will benefit from more attention, resources, and global fan engagement. The combination of fresh ownership and strategic growth initiatives could shape the championship’s trajectory in the coming years, potentially raising its profile to rival other major motorsport competitions.