KTM has denied rumors suggesting that Red Bull might step in to resolve its current financial challenges while reaffirming its commitment to competing in MotoGP.

The Austrian motorcycle manufacturer is currently facing a severe financial crisis and needs at least €100 million to sustain operations through 2025. The situation has led to multiple job cuts, with an additional 280–300 employees expected to be laid off at its Upper Austria site by the end of the year. The company also plans to scale back operations to a single shift in 2024 and suspend production during January and February.

KTM’s management is actively working to secure funding, with ongoing discussions with several financial institutions. Amid this, Austrian newspaper Salzburger Nachrichten reported that Red Bull co-owner Mark Mateschitz might provide financial aid, citing supposed talks between the management of both companies. Mateschitz shares a close relationship with KTM boss Stefan Pierer, as both are partners in a joint venture that recently acquired a controlling stake in fire-service supplier Rosenbauer.

However, KTM’s parent company, Pierer Mobility AG, has officially denied any such intervention by Red Bull. In a statement, it clarified: “There are no discussions about Mark Mateschitz joining Pierer Mobility and KTM.”

Pierer Mobility’s financial troubles have already impacted its motorsport programs. For instance, Husqvarna’s withdrawal has left the Intact GP team without financial support in Moto2 and Moto3, and KTM’s participation in the 2025 Dakar Rally will be scaled back to just three riders. These changes align with Pierer Mobility’s strategic shift toward prioritizing the KTM brand in motorsport. As a result, GasGas branding will exit MotoGP in 2025.

Despite the financial strain, KTM remains steadfast in its MotoGP involvement. Motorsport director Pit Beirer reassured: “We will stay in all the series we are in. Whatever we do, we do with 100% commitment.” He emphasized that the company’s junior programs, including the Rookies Cup, remain secure thanks to strong support from partners and sponsors.

KTM joined MotoGP in 2017 with the ambition of consistently competing for victories and world championships. Beirer underscored the strategic importance of motorsport to KTM’s overall success, stating: “Motorsport and the company’s achievements over the last 20 years are deeply connected. Racing has driven our growth and success. We sell motorcycles because we win races—that’s the secret.”

While acknowledging the challenges, Beirer expressed confidence in the company’s resilience. “We are part of the KTM family and must stand together during this difficult time. Motorsport has taught us how to fight, and we’ll bring that fighting spirit to stabilize the company.”

Since its entry into MotoGP, KTM has achieved five grand prix victories, with the latest at the 2022 Thailand Grand Prix, along with two sprint race wins.