Guenther Steiner poised to take over Tech3 MotoGP team

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Former Haas Formula 1 team principal Guenther Steiner is reportedly on the cusp of acquiring the Tech3 MotoGP team, a significant move that could reshape the French outfit’s future in the championship.

According to Motorsport.com, the deal, valued at just over £20 million, marks not only a pivotal moment for Steiner as he transitions from F1 to the two-wheeled world of MotoGP, but also for the latter as it would seal the first significant move in the series since its recent acquisition by Liberty Media.

While Steiner is expected to be the public face of the deal, much of the financial backing will reportedly come from Apex, an investment firm managing funds for nearly 100 professional athletes – including McLaren star Lando Norris.

Keeping Tech3’s DNA Intact

The Tech3 outfit, founded in 1990 by Herve Poncharal and Guy Coulon, is set to maintain its current structure under the reported agreement. That includes retaining its French headquarters, current staff, and the rider lineup of Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales.

Steiner’s involvement with Tech3 was touched upon by Poncharal during last June’s Aragon Grand Prix when rumors about a potential takeover first emerged.

©Tech3 Racing

“There’s a name circulating in the media: Guenther Steiner. Yes, we’ve spoken with him – he’s very kind and direct, and I really like that,” said the Frenchman at the time.

“He has a lot of experience in motorsport. He could come on board as an investor, a partner, a minority shareholder, helping with sponsorship.”

The potential transition also comes as KTM, Tech3’s current manufacturer partner, continues to navigate the aftermath of a major financial crisis in 2024.

A sale to Steiner and Apex would significantly ease KTM’s burden while securing Tech3’s future amid uncertainty about KTM’s long-term commitment to MotoGP beyond 2026.

While neither party has formally confirmed the agreement, all signs point to Steiner’s return to motorsport in a new and high-profile role – this time, with two wheels instead of four.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.