As of August 2025, the situation between Red Bull and KTM in MotoGP has become a major talking point amid financial instability and rumors swirling around the future of their iconic partnership.
What’s the story?
KTM, the Austrian manufacturer with a strong presence in MotoGP, is facing serious financial challenges and an organizational restructuring. Reports throughout 2024 and 2025 suggested the company might leave MotoGP after the 2025 season—or, more specifically, in 2026, following the expiration of existing contracts and agreements with key riders and promoters. However, KTM has reaffirmed its commitment to racing in MotoGP throughout 2025, but beyond that, uncertainty prevails.
Red Bull’s role
Red Bull, long-time title sponsor for KTM’s premier class effort, has been linked to speculation that it might either withdraw funding or step in to stabilize KTM’s MotoGP project as costs and financial pressure mount. However, Pierer Mobility AG—KTM’s parent company—issued strong denials, stating there are no talks for Red Bull to rescue KTM and no plans for Red Bull co-owner Mark Mateschitz to join their management. Instead, Red Bull remains committed to continuing its branding partnership and KTM will focus on its primary brand, with other sub-brands pulling back from racing to reduce costs.
What about 2026 and beyond?
KTM’s rider contracts and agreements with MotoGP’s promoter, Dorna, run until the end of 2026. While all four RC16 race bikes sporting Red Bull KTM livery will compete in 2025, and KTM is “all-in” for the season, the company faces pressure to reduce motorsport expenditures—especially as large-scale restructuring continues. If KTM exits MotoGP, it’s expected to be timed to minimize PR damage—most likely after 2026 when contractual obligations end and new regulations come into force.
As for now, the Red Bull-KTM partnership will hold steady through the 2025 season, but both companies must navigate a challenging landscape as the future of their MotoGP project beyond 2026 remains undecided.
