Lewis Hamilton To Invest in KTM MotoGP Amid Move From Merced

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has reportedly entered talks over a possible investment in KTM's MotoGP team. This comes after KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer confirmed that the Austrian manufacturer was indeed in talks with Hamilton's management. The development comes at a time when KTM's parent company is struggling with severe financial problems, forcing the Austrian manufacturer to look for external investors to continue its MotoGP operations. This news comes in after Lewis' long awaited switch from Mercedes to Ferrari in 2025 ending his 12-year stay with Silver Arrows.

KTM Under Financial Struggles; Searches for Investors

The financial burden has been mounting for KTM, with reported liabilities rising to €1.8 billion. It also announced widespread cost-cutting measures, including reducing its workforce and scheduled two-month production stoppage starting early 2025. This has led to an increased need for external funding for KTM's MotoGP project to keep the firm afloat and in racing.

Beirer shed light on KTM’s financial state and the heightened interest from potential backers:

“The road racing program would need to stand independently. This interest makes us proud and optimistic, but it also means engaging in discussions beyond the technical aspects of racing—focusing on the larger investment landscape.”

KTM’s financial difficulties have created an opportunity for investors like Hamilton, who has often expressed his admiration for MotoGP. The British racing legend has openly shared his aspirations to own a team in the two-wheeled racing championship, making this potential collaboration a natural progression.

Liberty Media’s Historic Takeover and Its Implications

The backdrop for this development is Liberty Media’s ongoing €4.2 billion acquisition of MotoGP rights from Dorna Sports. If approved, the deal could see Formula 1 and MotoGP unified under a single entity by 2025. This historic move has not only sparked interest from investors but also raised concerns about possible conflicts of interest, prompting an investigation by the European Commission.

In a recent statement, Beirer acknowledged how Liberty Media’s involvement has further enhanced KTM’s appeal to external investors:

“The potential sale of MotoGP rights has generated significant attention. Investors are eager to explore what can be achieved under this new structure. While we are still in the early stages, we’re confident that we’ll have exciting updates before the start of the next season.”

Hamilton’s Ambitions and Ongoing Discussions

Lewis Hamilton’s reported interest in MotoGP ownership aligns with his broader ambitions in sports investments. Already part of the ownership group for the NFL’s Denver Broncos, the 39-year-old could expand his portfolio to include a MotoGP team if negotiations with KTM materialize. Beirer confirmed that discussions with Hamilton’s representatives are progressing.

What if the deal is successful?

If successful, Hamilton's investment could give KTM the financial respite needed while simultaneously boosting MotoGP to greater global visibility through Lewis Hamilton's star power. As MotoGP and F1 are likely to end up under the same corporate roof one day, this deal is going to represent a brand-new chapter in cross-sport motorsport cooperation. For the time being, all will be waiting for KTM and Hamilton to close the deal.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: PTI

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