Guenther Steiner has taken charge of Team Tech3 in MotoGP following a €20 million acquisition from Hervé Poncharal, signaling a significant shift in the sport’s leadership landscape. His appointment arrives amid Liberty Media‘s recent €4.2 billion purchase of Dorna, sparking discussions about whether MotoGP will begin to mirror Formula 1’s operational style.
Steiner Rejects the Idea of Mirroring Formula 1
At the Catalonia Grand Prix, Steiner strongly dismissed the notion that MotoGP should adopt Formula 1’s structure. He emphasized that each motorsport has its distinct identity and cautioned against a “copy-paste” approach.
We shouldn’t adapt MotoGP to Formula 1,
he asserted, underscoring that the championship has its own path to pursue. Regarding Liberty Media’s ownership, Steiner remarked,
I don’t think so. Many people might believe that because Liberty has taken over, it will simply replicate Formula 1, but I don’t think they will do that. Dorna is still in charge here, and they know what’s important for MotoGP.
Belief in MotoGP’s Unique Story and Potential
Steiner expressed confidence that MotoGP already has the essential ingredients to succeed without borrowing heavily from other disciplines. He said,
They don’t need to copy someone else because they can write their own story. There are enough ingredients here to create something unique,
highlighting the sport’s ability to thrive on its own merits.
Looking Beyond Formula 1 for Innovation
Rather than restricting inspiration strictly to Formula 1, Steiner promotes a broader perspective that draws from diverse sports, including those from the American entertainment industry. He explained,
You don’t need to jump on the track and say, ‘Let’s do it like them.’ You must always look at what other sports are doing—not just Formula 1. There are other sports from which we can draw inspiration. I’ve learned a lot from American sports, especially from lacrosse and ball sports, about bringing fans closer,
demonstrating an eagerness to innovate while respecting MotoGP’s roots.
Adapting While Preserving MotoGP’s Identity
At the core of Steiner’s approach is a balance between adaptation and authenticity. He emphasized that MotoGP should not mimic Formula 1 unnecessarily, stating,
We cannot say, ‘Let’s take this from Formula 1 and do it here,’ because that’s unnecessary. MotoGP can stand on its own and achieve great success. It already is,
reinforcing his belief in the sport’s inherent strength.
Welcomed Warmly into the MotoGP Community
Steiner shared his surprise at the warm reception he has received from the MotoGP community, contrasting it with the environment he experienced in Formula 1. Reflecting on his new surroundings, he said,
The biggest surprise has been how welcomed we have been here,
and added humorously about feeling like a stranger who was quickly embraced. Addressing the different pressures across the two sports, Steiner noted,
In Formula 1, the pressure is definitely higher. Here, it’s more about sporting pressure. In F1, there’s a lot of politics involved.
What Lies Ahead for MotoGP Under Steiner’s Direction
As Guenther Steiner settles into his role, the MotoGP paddock is witnessing a fresh wave of honesty and openness. His clear vision promises an era where MotoGP evolves under Liberty Media’s ownership while remaining firmly grounded in its unique traditions. Steiner’s leadership is shaping a future that respects the sport’s heritage even as it seeks innovative growth opportunities.
