In an unexpected twist, rumours suggesting that Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton might be eyeing a buy-in to KTM’s MotoGP team have been swiftly shot down by the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer’s top brass. The speculation began swirling ahead of the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with whispers that Hamilton could potentially step in to rescue KTM amid their ongoing financial struggles. However, KTM has responded firmly, putting these claims to rest.

Hamilton, who has previously expressed an interest in owning a MotoGP team, was reportedly considering KTM as a potential investment opportunity. But it seems the relationship between the seven-time F1 world champion and the Austrian brand is purely speculative, with no plans for a buyout in sight.

“Never in a million years,” one KTM source bluntly told GPOne, dismissing the rumours with finality.

Tech3 KTM team principal Herve Poncharal was equally dismissive, adding, “These rumours are completely unfounded. There’s not a shred of truth in them. And I assume this also applies to the factory team.”

Other sources within KTM shared similar sentiments, with one executive stating, “We read the Hamilton story with astonishment!” The swift response from KTM shows that they are not willing to entertain the idea of a potential acquisition by the F1 star, despite the mounting pressure of financial issues.

For fans of Formula 1, the notion of Hamilton associating with KTM may seem ironic, especially considering KTM’s close ties to Red Bull – the team that has been Hamilton’s biggest rival in his F1 career. Moreover, Hamilton’s sponsorship deals with Monster Energy, Red Bull’s arch competitor in the energy drink market, adds another layer of complexity to the speculation.

Despite rumours of financial turbulence, KTM has made it clear that their future in MotoGP remains intact. The company, which is currently navigating debts estimated to reach €3 billion, has entered self-administration, but they remain committed to continuing their racing programme.

Hamilton, for his part, has reiterated his interest in owning a sports team, though he’s not fixated on the specifics of a MotoGP investment just yet. Speaking earlier this year, he said, “I’ve always loved MotoGP. I’m interested in the potential growth of the sport. But I haven’t looked that far into it, just yet. But anything is possible. I’m definitely interested, as I said before, about equity. The Denver Broncos was already a first step into team ownership.”

The F1 icon also hinted that more ownership opportunities could arise in the future. “I think over the next five to ten years there will be a little bit more. We’ll see,” Hamilton added, leaving the door open for potential investments down the line.

While KTM and Hamilton may not be partnering up in MotoGP anytime soon, the speculation has certainly stirred up interest and raised questions about the future of both parties. Could Hamilton’s next venture involve a different team or series altogether? Fans will be watching closely to see where his passion for motorsport ownership takes him in the coming years.

For now, though, KTM has set the record straight: their MotoGP future is in their own hands, and Hamilton won’t be the one to take the reins.