Guenther Steiner, the former Haas F1 Team principal and renowned motorsport personality, has completed a landmark acquisition of the entire Red Bull KTM Tech3 outfit, including its Moto3™ program. This takeover, supported by IKON Capital, will take effect from the 2026 season and marks a significant turning point for the historic independent team in MotoGP.
The move is set to reshape Tech3’s future by blending Steiner’s extensive racing leadership experience with the team’s longstanding presence in the paddock, promising fresh energy and innovation.
A Revamped Leadership and Continued Legacy
Following the takeover, Steiner will assume the role of CEO, while Richard Coleman will step into the position of Team Principal. Hervé Poncharal, Tech3’s founder and current team boss, will remain involved for the rest of the current season before transitioning to a consultancy role aimed at nurturing young talent and preserving the team’s heritage.
Despite the change in ownership, Tech3 will maintain its identity, continuing as Tech3, retaining KTM machines on a current supply basis, and staying headquartered in Bormes-les-Mimosas, France.
Steiner’s Motorsport Journey Shapes His MotoGP Vision
Guenther Steiner’s experience spans rally engineering, leadership roles at Jaguar Racing and Red Bull Racing, and founding the Haas F1 Team. Known for his decisive style and no-nonsense approach, Steiner brings his dynamic character from Formula 1 to the motorcycle racing world, aiming to build upon Tech3’s foundations while injecting fresh ambition.
“Tech3 is a great team with a huge amount of potential and an impressive legacy,” Steiner said. “We’re honored to take over and build on those foundations. We’re excited to become part of the MotoGP paddock, help the sport grow, and connect it to new audiences.”
—Guenther Steiner, CEO
Striving to Elevate Competitiveness and Fan Engagement
Richard Coleman emphasized the drive behind the new ownership’s goals, underlining a focus on active competition and stronger fan connections. The team’s future will prioritize not just participation, but a more visible and engaging presence in MotoGP.
“We’re here to compete, not just participate. We want to connect with more fans and show off the best of MotoGP.”
—Richard Coleman, Team Principal
Hervé Poncharal Reflects on Passing the Torch
For Hervé Poncharal, who founded Tech3 in 1990 and has led it into MotoGP since 2001, the takeover represents a heartfelt transition. His legacy includes 38 podium finishes, two Grand Prix wins, and a 250cc world championship in 2000. Poncharal expressed confidence in Steiner’s leadership, highlighting the importance of maintaining the team’s original spirit.
“This is the end of an era, but the beginning of an exciting one. When Guenther approached me, it felt like the perfect moment. I know he’ll lead with ambition and integrity — without losing that little bit of rock’n’roll spirit Tech3 was founded on.”
—Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 Founder
Official Support from MotoGP’s Governing Body
Carlos Ezpeleta, MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer, welcomed Steiner’s entry into the paddock while acknowledging Tech3’s valuable contribution to the sport. Ezpeleta described the acquisition as mutually beneficial and expressed enthusiasm about the team’s growth under new management.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Guenther to MotoGP. Tech3’s legacy speaks for itself, as does Hervé’s contribution. This is a win-win for everyone, and we’re excited to see the team grow in this new era.”
—Carlos Ezpeleta, MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer
Strategic Significance of Steiner’s Entry into MotoGP
The Guenther Steiner MotoGP Tech3 takeover is emblematic of wider trends in modern motorsport, influenced by Liberty Media’s global approach to franchise-style management and entertainment integration. This shift aims to increase audience engagement and broaden the sport’s appeal beyond traditional fans.
By transforming Tech3 into more than just a racing team, Steiner plans to craft a compelling sports entertainment brand positioned for future growth in a competitive global market. His arrival signals a new chapter poised to energize MotoGP and its fanbase alike.
