Guenther Steiner, known for his previous role as Haas Formula 1 team principal, has successfully completed the takeover of the Tech3 MotoGP outfit with support from a group of investors. This significant transaction was revealed during a press conference at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on the day before the Catalan Grand Prix.
The acquisition deal, valued at just under €20 million, positions Steiner to assume full management control of the Tech3 team starting in 2026, succeeding the current owner Herve Poncharal. The arrangement is supported by Apex, a fund representing notable sports personalities, including McLaren F1 driver Lando Norris and other unnamed grand prix racers.
Background and Future Operations of Tech3 Under Steiner
Tech3 has a long-standing presence in motorcycle racing’s top tier, competing since 2001 initially as a Yamaha satellite team before switching exclusively to KTM machinery in 2019. Under the new ownership, the team will maintain its current rider lineup with Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini continuing for upcoming seasons, along with the existing staff and French headquarters.
Reports also indicate that Steiner has secured assurances from MotoGP promoter Dorna to continue holding Tech3’s two starting positions on the grid beyond 2026, despite current team agreements expiring in 2027 when MotoGP transitions to 850cc engines. This continuity is crucial as the industry prepares for regulatory changes.
Industry Context and Steiner’s Motorsports Legacy
This development comes shortly after Liberty Media, owner of Formula 1, became the majority shareholder in Dorna Sports in July, strengthening ties between major motorsport entities. Liberty Media’s influence has already driven substantial increases in team valuations within Formula 1, exemplified by McLaren Racing’s estimated worth close to £3 billion following recent investment from Bahrain’s Mumtalakat sovereign wealth fund and Abu Dhabi’s CYVN Holdings.
Steiner’s career began in rally mechanics before entering Formula 1 in 2001 with Jaguar. After the team’s acquisition by Red Bull, he advanced to Technical Operations Director by 2005 and led Red Bull’s NASCAR initiative in 2006. He is best recognized for establishing and managing the US-based Haas F1 team, gaining wider fame through Netflix’s Drive to Survive documentary series.
Following the non-renewal of his contract with Haas in 2023, Steiner had concentrated on media roles as a pundit and columnist. His acquisition of Tech3 represents his significant return to motorsport team leadership, signaling a renewed focus on competitive management within two-wheel racing.
Impact and Outlook for Tech3’s MotoGP Future
With Steiner at the helm and the contract with Dorna secured through 2027, the Tech3 MotoGP squad enters a period of stability and potential growth. Maintaining the experienced rider roster and staff indicates a commitment to performance continuity, while the backing from Apex and investor groups ensures financial stability.
This takeover aligns with broader industry trends involving cross-investment between established motorsport disciplines and enhanced commercial strategies under entities like Liberty Media. Tech3’s sustained presence and the planned transition in leadership suggest a competitive and financially sound future as the team adapts to the evolving MotoGP landscape.
