Former Haas Formula 1 team boss Gunther Steiner has completed a takeover of the Tech3 MotoGP outfit, marking one of the most high-profile crossovers between the two series.
The announcement was made on Friday at the Catalan Grand Prix, confirming that Steiner will lead a consortium of investors that has purchased the French team from founder Herve Poncharal.
Tech3, established in 1990, has been a permanent fixture on the MotoGP grid since 2001 and has run as KTM‘s satellite operation since 2019.
The team will continue under the Tech3 name and retain its base in Bormes-les-Mimosas, while KTM machinery will remain at the heart of its programme.
The acquisition is believed to have been facilitated by an American- and Portuguese-backed investment group, with reports suggesting the deal is valued at close to €20 million.
Alongside Steiner, now the team’s CEO, Richard Coleman has been named as the new team principal.
Tech3 will continued using KTM bikes
KTM
Poncharal, meanwhile, will step back from day-to-day operations but remain with the squad in a consultancy role to ensure continuity.
“This is a fantastic opportunity,” Steiner said. “Tech3 is a great team with a huge amount of potential and an impressive legacy.
“Herve’s impact on the team and MotoGP itself cannot be overstated, and we’re honoured to take over and keep building on those foundations.”
Steiner rose to prominence during his tenure as team principal of Haas F1, which he helped launch into Formula 1 in 2016.
His management style, showcased through the Drive to Survive docuseries, made him one of the most recognisable figures in grand prix racing.
Poncharal, who has led Tech3 since its inception, said the time was right to hand over the reins.
“I’m very proud of everything we’ve achieved since Tech3 was born, winning MotoGP races and taking so many podiums, as well as what we have built over these decades with all the people we crossed paths with. When Guenther approached me with an interest in the team, it seemed to fall into place as the perfect moment to make this change,” Poncharal said.
“I know that Guenther will lead the team with direction. Tech3 will be in good hands to help it grow even more in this new era for MotoGP.”
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Dorna CEO Carlos Ezpeleta added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Guenther to MotoGP. We’re in a great moment for the sport, continuing our trajectory of growth, and poised for that to accelerate even more.
“Tech3’s legacy speaks for itself, as does Hervé’s contribution to the sport, and this new era is set to build on that even further, so this is an exciting win-win.
“Although he will still be around as he transitions into a consultant role from next year, we want to thank Hervé for everything he has achieved and contributed to MotoGP, and to give Guenther and Richard a warm welcome to our paddock. We’re excited to work all together.”
Steiner, who was replaced as Haas F1 boss after the 2024 season, had been evaluating opportunities in MotoGP for more than two years.
The acquisition transaction will be funded by a group of investors led by IKON Capital.
