Tech3 MotoGP team owner Herve Poncharal has publicly denied rumors that he sold his MotoGP Tech3 team to Guenther Steiner during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend. The circulating reports suggested that Steiner, formerly the Haas F1 team principal, had acquired the KTM satellite team, but Poncharal dismissed these claims as unfounded.
Guenther Steiner’s Current Role and Discussions with Tech3
With Guenther Steiner’s contract at Haas not renewed ahead of the 2024 Formula 1 season, he has shifted his focus to media and punditry roles, expressing no immediate desire to return to active motorsport management. Despite this, Steiner is known to have engaged in talks with Herve Poncharal about possible investment in the Tech3 team as KTM’s long-term MotoGP involvement faces uncertainty amid its financial struggles.
KTM recently raised $632 million to handle debt, yet it still owes approximately $2.3 billion, creating instability that has prompted Poncharal to explore new investment opportunities to secure his team‘s future. Steiner’s potential involvement was one such topic, fueled by rising investor interest in MotoGP following Liberty Media’s acquisition of the sport’s commercial rights.
Clarifying the False Acquisition Story and Future of Tech3
Contrary to earlier claims that Steiner was part of a U.S.-based investment group named Apex, purportedly acquiring Tech3 for $23 million, Poncharal firmly denied any sale in an interview with GPOne.
“This is absolute fake news. We’re talking, as you know. But nothing has signed! I have never made a secret of the fact that discussions are underway. But I am very annoyed by these new rumours and speculations. I don’t want to go into details as there is no news to report.”
—Herve Poncharal, Tech3 MotoGP Team Owner
Steiner declined to comment on the situation when approached. Meanwhile, Tech3 has yet to commit to the forthcoming MotoGP regulatory cycle running from 2027 to 2031, which could significantly raise its value due to Liberty Media’s influence in the sport.
Context on Liberty Media’s Role and Tech3’s Current Position
In early July, Liberty Media completed a $4.9 billion acquisition of Dorna, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP. They now control 84 percent of the business, with 16 percent retained by previous owners including Carmelo Ezpeleta. This major change has sparked greater investment interest throughout the paddock.
Currently, Tech3 holds seventh place in the MotoGP teams’ championship, with its best finish being fifth at the French Grand Prix secured by rider Maverick Vinales. The evolving commercial landscape means Tech3’s next moves will be closely watched by fans and investors alike as the team seeks stability amid the sport’s shifting business environment.
