Zakirin
CFMoto is reportedly laying the groundwork for a massive leap into the premier class of motorcycle racing. The Chinese motorcycle manufacturer is heavily tipped to join the MotoGP grid, leveraging its deepening ties with KTM to make it a reality.
The €100 Million KTM Deal
According to reports from Italian motorsport outlet GPOne, CFMoto is currently engaged in serious discussions with KTM at the Austrian brand’s headquarters. The negotiations center around the possibility of CFMoto completely taking over the KTM Racing AG MotoGP project.
This major development comes in the wake of extensive structural and financial restructuring within the Pierer Mobility Group (PMG), the parent company of KTM. To secure the complete MotoGP package—which would include the machinery, engines, and racing expertise—CFMoto has reportedly tabled an offer in the region of €100 million.
Building a Grand Prix Pedigree
CFMoto is no stranger to the Grand Prix paddock. The brand has been steadily building its racing footprint and expanding its global motorsport ambitions since 2022:
- Moto3 Debut: CFMoto officially entered the Grand Prix lightweight class in 2022 through a partnership with the German outfit, PruestelGP.
- Expanding with Aspar: Thanks to its strategic alliance with PMG, CFMoto replaced GasGas as the primary sponsor for the Aspar Team in 2024, effectively expanding its presence across the Moto3 and Moto2 grids.
- Superbike Ambitions: Beyond Grand Prix racing, CFMoto has also expressed interest in entering the WorldSBK championship with its highly anticipated, yet-to-be-launched V4 SR-RR sports bike.
A Historic Milestone on the Horizon
If the proposed takeover is successful, it would mark a historic milestone in motorsport: CFMoto would become the very first Chinese manufacturer to own and operate a full factory team in the MotoGP premier class.
However, fans should not expect to see a CFMoto factory bike lining up on the premier grid immediately. Even if the deal is finalized, the official transition is expected to take at least half a decade to fully materialize. Furthermore, any new manufacturer entry or major team takeover will still require strict, official approval from the sport’s organizing body, Dorna Sports.
