TRAIL, through the SLAM fund, announces the acquisition of a stake in MotoGP team Red Bull KTM Tech3
Bormes-Les-Mimosas, France – January 30th, 2026 – TRAIL, through the SLAM fund, has acquired a stake in Red Bull KTM Tech3 (Tech3) as part of the team’s acquisition by a consortium inclusive of Bolt Ventures, Main Street Advisors and IKON Capital. Tech3 is one of the longest-serving and best-performing independent teams in the MotoGP World Championship (MotoGP), and the only one based in France. This transaction marks a significant step in SLAM’s expansion within the sports and entertainment sector and reflects SLAM’s strategy of supporting premium, high-growth sports assets with strong international visibility.
Founded in 1989, Tech3 has developed into one of the most respected independent teams on the MotoGP grid, recognized for its consistent competitiveness, technical expertise and long-standing presence at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. MotoGP itself is the foremost motorcycle racing competition and a well-established global sport, with a loyal international fan base, strong visibility and longstanding competitive heritage.
The recent acquisition of Dorna Sports by Liberty Media, owner of Formula 1, marks a major inflection point for MotoGP and is expected to accelerate the sport’s commercial development, strengthen fan engagement and drive global expansion. Against this backdrop, Tech3 is entering a promising new phase with significant opportunities to scale its commercial operations, deepen strategic partnerships and enhance its international brand presence.
SLAM will play an active role in this next chapter, drawing on its deep roots in the French and European sports ecosystem. As the only Europe-based fund in the consortium, SLAM brings a valuable local network and strong understanding of the national sporting landscape. Its long-standing relationship with Formula 1 driver Pierre Gasly – who will also participate in the funding round alongside SLAM – provides additional access and perspective within the French market, while supporting Tech3’s broader international growth ambitions.
Tech3’s development will be further supported by a highly experienced leadership team and a strong group of co-investors with deep expertise in motorsports and sports asset management. Guenther Steiner brings decades of operational, competitive and commercial experience at the highest levels of motorsport. Alongside SLAM, co-shareholders Bolt Ventures, Main Street Advisors and IKON Capital bring complementary capabilities and a proven track record in global sports investing. This combination creates a powerful platform for long-term value creation while preserving Tech3’s identity and heritage.
Xavier Marin, Chairman at TRAIL:
“We are proud to be the only European investment fund supporting this new momentum around a leading French motorsport player, founded in 1989 and based in Bormes-les-Mimosas. MotoGP is entering a new phase of global growth, driven in particular by the arrival of Liberty Media. France has a unique ecosystem to play a key role in this evolution: Le Mans, Tech3, Canal+, Michelin. We are delighted to support the next stage of Tech3’s development alongside Guenther Steiner and our co-investors.”
Pierre Gasly, Formula 1 driver and SLAM partner:
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to invest in Tech3 alongside SLAM. I have a strong conviction in the strength of the Tech3 brand and the long-term growth of the MotoGP sport. Tech3 has significant untapped potential, and I look forward to contributing to further elevating the team’s profile.”
Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP:
“Having an investor group of this stature acquire a team is a strong endorsement for MotoGP and for the championship’s trajectory of global growth. We are excited to welcome the group to the paddock and look forward to working in partnership to bring the championship to new audiences around the world."
About TRAIL
TRAIL is a leading European private equity platform with more than €1 billion of cumulated assets under management. The firm invests in high-growth companies and premium assets across Europe and Asia, backing ambitious entrepreneurs and management teams and supporting them in building long-term value. In December 2023, TRAIL launched SLAM, a dedicated investment vehicle focused on premium sports, lifestyle and media assets with strong global expansion potential. More information is available at www.trailcapital.eu.
About Red Bull KTM Tech3
Founded in 1989, Red Bull KTM Tech3 is one of the longest-standing independent teams competing in the MotoGP World Championship. Known for its engineering excellence, competitiveness and commitment to developing top-level talent, Red Bull KTM Tech3 combines decades of racing heritage with an ambitious strategy focused on innovation and global brand expansion.
