Verstappen and Hamilton linked to MotoGP team ownership

Formula 1 world champion Verstappen and Hamilton are known MotoGP fans and probably see potential as Liberty Media, who now own the premier two-wheeled series, prepares to push the series onto a bigger global stage.

This interest follows news of Guenther Steiner’s high-profile switch from Formula 1 to two-wheeled management. The former Haas F1 Team principal led a consortium that acquired Tech3, and from 2026 he will take over as CEO of the French outfit, already working with KTM and its staff.

Hamilton is regarded as the most serious contender. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, he has often tested superbikes and famously swapped machines with Valentino Rossi at Silverstone. Over the past year he held talks with KTM and Gresini but no agreement was reached.

His representatives have since continued discussions with private outfits and are said to have backing from TWG Motorsports, the group behind Cadillac’s Formula 1 entry. For Hamilton, MotoGP combines personal passion with a timely business opportunity.

Verstappen is reportedly also exploring the idea. The Dutchman has an existing structure and growing enterprise based around Verstappen.com Racing, while his enthusiasm for two wheels is well known.

However, his manager, Raymond Vermeulen, played down the prospect of an immediate purchase but admitted that MotoGP interests Verstappen. Reports suggest approaches have already been made to independent teams such as LCR.

With Tech3 secured by Steiner and the five factory squads off the market, attention has turned to the remaining independent operations. Both Hamilton and Verstappen are believed to have made contact to register interest, signalling that F1’s biggest stars could soon become MotoGP team owners.