Breaking: Lewis Hamilton holds ‘concrete talks’ with manufacturer...

Lewis Hamilton holds ‘concrete talks’ with manufacturer battling €3 billion debt

Lewis Hamilton has reportedly engaged in “concrete discussions” with KTM, the financially troubled Austrian manufacturer, as it seeks to secure its future in the MotoGP series. The news was confirmed by Pit Beirer, KTM’s motorsport director, as the company works to overcome a significant debt burden of €3 billion.

KTM, which has been a part of the MotoGP grid since 2017, is currently facing severe financial issues. In an effort to stabilize the company and ensure their participation in the 2025 MotoGP season, KTM is exploring new partnerships, sponsorships, and investments. Among the potential investors is seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who is known for his passion for motorcycles and motorsports beyond Formula 1.

Beirer, speaking to Speedweek, confirmed that discussions with Hamilton’s management have taken place. “All I can say is that we have had very interesting discussions with his management,” Beirer revealed. “It is no secret that Lewis Hamilton is interested in MotoGP and is thinking about having his own team. There are concrete discussions here too. The current situation is making us creative and open to new discussions. So we are not only open to sponsors, as has been the case so far, but also to investors.”

Hamilton’s potential involvement with KTM has generated considerable interest, especially as the manufacturer looks for solutions to its financial struggles. While Hamilton is known for his success in Formula 1, his interest in MotoGP and motorcycles has been well-documented over the years, leading to speculation that he could play a key role in KTM’s future if a deal is reached.

However, one significant aspect of any potential partnership between Hamilton and KTM is the company’s close ties with Red Bull. KTM is heavily sponsored by Red Bull, and Beirer was clear that any investor would need to collaborate with the energy drink giant.

“Anyone who wants to work with us knows about the proximity – Red Bull and KTM are inseparable,” Beirer emphasized. “That has not been an issue in the negotiations so far.”

Hamilton’s history with Red Bull in Formula 1 is noteworthy, especially after the dramatic 2021 season, when Red Bull’s Max Verstappen ended Hamilton’s long-standing dominance of the sport. That season was marked by intense rivalry between Hamilton’s Mercedes team and Red Bull, leading to significant tension. Despite this history, Beirer’s comments suggest that such dynamics have not complicated the current discussions between Hamilton and KTM.

As discussions progress, Hamilton’s involvement in MotoGP, either as an investor or team owner, would represent a significant development for the sport. His interest aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the relationship between Formula 1 and MotoGP.

In a related development, Liberty Media, the owners of Formula 1, recently agreed to purchase an 86 percent stake in MotoGP from Dorna Sports for €4.2 billion. This deal, however, has hit a snag, as the European Union has launched an in-depth investigation into potential monopoly issues raised by the transaction.

Liberty Media expressed confidence in the deal, stating, “We believe that the European Commission will conclude that the transaction should be approved.” The company also noted that the acquisition would benefit MotoGP, its fans, and the motorcycle industry, enhancing MotoGP’s ability to compete in the growing audiovisual entertainment market.

In light of the ongoing EU investigation, the deadline for completing the transaction has been extended to June 30, 2025. This development further highlights the evolving relationship between the worlds of Formula 1 and MotoGP, with Hamilton potentially playing a major role in the latter’s future.

With KTM facing a financial crisis and Hamilton exploring opportunities in the MotoGP world, the partnership could signal a new era for the manufacturer and the sport, while continuing to foster stronger ties between Formula 1 and MotoGP.