Liberty Media is preparing for a transformative “new era” in MotoGP starting in 2027, but progress hinges on securing approval from current manufacturers KTM and Aprilia.
With Suzuki already withdrawn, MotoGP is now down to five factory teams. Liberty’s takeover has cleared European antitrust (targeted to close by July 3, 2025). However, participation in the next cycle requires KTM and Aprilia to commit under new engine and technical regulations for the 2027–2031 period.
KTM’s Financial Pressure
KTM faces serious financial stress, with steep debt and restructuring underway. Despite a recent €525 million loan from Bajaj and hints of other potential investors, the Austrian manufacturer has stated it will honour existing MotoGP commitments—but has not confirmed participation beyond 2026. The company’s CEO, Gottfried Neumeister, expressed that future involvement hinges on affordability, especially with the new technical rules and financial demands looming.
Aprilia’s Viewpoint
Aprilia’s motorsport chief Massimo Rivola emphasized the need for Liberty’s involvement to bring marketing expertise and cost-control alongside the regulatory reset in 2027. He noted that Liberty’s arrival could help counterbalance rising development costs, particularly in aero and engine domains. At the same time, he has not confirmed regarding Aprilia’s MotoGP future with the new regulations. In this case though it seems just a matter of time.
Liberty’s Strategy & Contingency Plans
If KTM or Aprilia decide to exit, MotoGP could explore new entrants like BMW or MV Agusta under a proposed engine-lease model similar to Formula 1’s. Liberty and Dorna envision leveraging F1-style promotion, especially to expand into markets like the United States. Even Suzuki might jump back in if the commercials make sense once again.
Summary & Outlook
| Stakeholder | Current Status | Decision Needed by 2027? |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty Media | EU-approved takeover by early July | Needs manufacturer commitments for 2027 cycle |
| KTM | Facing financial strain; uncertain post-2026 | Affordable participation under review |
| Aprilia | Supportive; awaits Liberty’s backing | Must sign new deal |
| Dorna & MotoGP | Waiting on manufacturers; open to alternatives | Exploring new entrants if needed |
Liberty Media is ready to usher MotoGP into a new chapter—enhanced global reach, technical reforms, and cost controls. But the vision hinges on KTM and Aprilia committing to the next technical era. If they decline, the field could open for willing manufacturers under a radical engine-lease framework.
