KTM confirms it is committed to competing in MotoGP despite pressure from creditors to withdraw due to its financial crisis.
The Austrian manufacturer has stated that its future is not under threat despite contradictory comments from its creditors last Friday.
In a report following the first meeting between KTM and its creditors at the Regional Court of Ried im Innkreis, Alpenlandischer Kreditorenverband (AKV) stated that a withdrawal from MotoGP is ‘planned’ to cut costs.
However, no timeline was provided for any alleged exit from the series.
“To reduce costs, the withdrawal of MotoGP/Moto3/Moto2 is planned,” read the note.
In response to the note, KTM issued its own statement, continuing its stance that it will be remaining in MotoGP for the 2025 season.
“Today marks an important day for KTM with the confirmation of our restructuring proceedings. This milestone secures our plan moving forward, and we are proud to confirm that motorsport remains an integral part of this restructuring plan,” it said.
“KTM stands firmly committed to motorsport. We repeat our statement for 2025: we will continue to race in MotoGP!
“We are re-energised with today’s positive outcome and thank you for your support.”
This statement comes despite an extensive memorandum from its administrators which laid out the main demands from the rest of the restructuring process.
The number of staff set to be laid-off has also been reduced from the original 500 down to 300, while salaries are expected to be paid in mid-January.
What next for KTM?
The next hearing between KTM and its creditors is expected in January.
KTM is looking for external funding after accruing debts totalling 2.9 billion euro amid flagging sales of its road-going bikes, with potential investors already approaching KTM and the restructuring administrator.
A basic agreement with these potential investors is set to be reached by mid-January, around the same time KTM staff can expect their payment.
It still remains to be seen as to whether KTM will be lining up on the MotoGP grid, but there is a lot of optimism around the brand following its restructuring process.
Pedro Acosta’s manager Alberto Valera is reported to have met with KTM bosses and has been assured that the racing programme will not be affected.
“Pedro and I had the opportunity to travel to Austria to see in person the real situation of the KTM project in MotoGP,” Valera told Motorsport.com.
“Despite the delicate situation that the company is going through, the sensations are positive.
“We have been told at all times that racing is the essence of KTM, that they will continue to work with the sole objective of winning the title.
“Pedro is committed to the project and feels more relieved and confident after the meeting.”
Outside of MotoGP, KTM has entered a three-man team into the Dakar Rally, which is set to get underway on January 3.
