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In a significant development within the world of motorcycle racing, former Haas Formula 1 team principal Guenther Steiner is reportedly on the verge of acquiring the Tech3 MotoGP team. This substantial transaction, estimated at more than €20 million, signals a potentially transformative period for the sport, particularly following Liberty Media's recent high-profile purchase of MotoGP promoter Dorna. The move is poised to inject new energy and strategic direction into the Tech3 outfit, which boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1990 by Herve Poncharal and Guy Coulon. This acquisition is a testament to the growing convergence and investment interest between the F1 and MotoGP racing circuits, promising a future where cross-promotional opportunities and shared strategic insights could redefine the landscape of global motorsport.

The impending takeover of Tech3 by Guenther Steiner, a figure well-known for his charismatic leadership in Formula 1, represents a strategic pivot in the MotoGP paddock. Sources indicate the agreement for the team, established in 1990 by Hervé Poncharal and Guy Coulon, is valued at over €20 million. This acquisition arrives shortly after Liberty Media's substantial €4.3 billion purchase of Dorna, the commercial rights holder for MotoGP, suggesting a broader strategy to integrate the two premier motorsport series.

Steiner's venture is not a solitary effort. Financial backing largely originates from Apex, an investment management firm that counts prominent professional athletes, including Formula 1 star Lando Norris, among its approximately 100 investors. While other high-profile F1 drivers are understood to have invested through Apex, their identities remain undisclosed. Apex has a track record of strategic investments, notably a 20% stake in the Alpine F1 team, underlining its interest in high-tier motorsport properties.

Hervé Poncharal, Tech3's long-standing team principal, has openly acknowledged discussions with various interested parties regarding the team's ownership, specifically mentioning Steiner on multiple occasions. Poncharal noted Steiner's direct and agreeable nature, coupled with his extensive motorsport experience, making him an ideal candidate to potentially join as an investor, partner, or even a minority shareholder, particularly in attracting new sponsorships.

Regarding the operational continuity of Tech3, there is a clear commitment to retain the existing staff, riders, and the team's headquarters in France. Poncharal is expected to gradually transition his responsibilities to Steiner, allowing the former Haas team principal to immerse himself in the intricacies of managing a MotoGP team. This smooth handover aims to preserve the team's operational stability while introducing fresh leadership and strategic vision.

Steiner's widespread popularity and engaging persona, significantly amplified by his role in the 'Drive to Survive' documentary series, are anticipated to attract a broader audience to MotoGP. This acquisition is particularly timely, as it coincides with a period of uncertainty surrounding KTM's involvement in the championship. KTM, the current supplier of prototypes to Tech3 riders Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini, recently navigated a challenging financial phase with substantial investment from Bajaj, an Indian brand that assumed control of KTM with an investment of approximately €800 million. Despite these financial shifts, both Viñales and Bastianini remain under direct contracts with KTM, ensuring their immediate future with the team is secure. KTM has also reaffirmed its commitment to MotoGP until 2026, guaranteeing the new ownership access to RC16 bikes for the upcoming season. However, with all current team contracts with Dorna expiring in 2026, the 2027 season presents a crucial juncture for satellite teams to renegotiate existing agreements or explore new alliances for motorcycle suppliers.

This significant deal reflects a changing perception of MotoGP, especially since Liberty Media's announcement to acquire the series. This heightened interest has led to numerous offers from corporations, investment funds, and affluent individuals seeking to acquire full or partial control of satellite teams. A notable example was last year's near-finalized sale of Gresini to Andrew Fox, the owner of logistics giant Linfox and the Phillip Island circuit, although Nadia Padovani, the widow of the team's founder Fausto Gresini, ultimately decided against the sale. The trend underscores a burgeoning investment landscape within MotoGP, attracting diverse and influential stakeholders.

McLaren continued their commanding presence at the Hungaroring, replicating their 1-2 performance in the final practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix. Oscar Piastri emerged as the pacesetter, narrowly edging out Lando Norris, setting a formidable tone for the qualifying session that lies ahead. This consistent top-tier showing from McLaren underscores their significant progress and potential for a strong weekend.

The session commenced with a cautious approach from most drivers, as it took nearly ten minutes for the first complete lap time to be registered. As track conditions improved, drivers began to push harder. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari demonstrated consistent pace, securing third position across all practice sessions this weekend, a testament to his team's efforts. In contrast, Red Bull, particularly Max Verstappen, encountered persistent challenges in finding optimal car balance, which was reflected in their performance rankings.

McLaren's Assertive Performance in Hungary

McLaren showcased its potent competitive form during the final practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix, maintaining a clear advantage over the rest of the field. This dominant 1-2 result, where Oscar Piastri outmaneuvered Lando Norris for the fastest lap, highlights the team's strong preparation and the impressive capabilities of their vehicle. The precision and speed demonstrated by both drivers suggest McLaren is a formidable contender, well-positioned for success in the crucial qualifying rounds and the main race.

The session's early moments were characterized by a measured approach from competitors, with a noticeable delay before competitive lap times were posted. However, as the session progressed and drivers adapted to the circuit's evolving conditions, McLaren's superior performance became evident. Piastri's decisive lap, almost a second faster than his nearest rival at one point, underscored the team's remarkable pace. Despite a solid third-place showing from Charles Leclerc, Ferrari remained a significant distance behind McLaren's leading duo, while Red Bull faced notable challenges in optimizing their car's setup, indicating a potential struggle for top positions.

Competitive Landscape and Team Dynamics

Beyond McLaren's outstanding showing, the final practice provided insights into the broader competitive landscape, revealing varying levels of performance across other teams. While Ferrari consistently secured a strong third position with Charles Leclerc, signifying their stability, other teams grappled with challenges, particularly Red Bull, which struggled to find optimal car balance. This dynamic sets the stage for an intriguing qualifying session, where teams will push their limits to overcome current limitations and vie for advantageous grid positions.

The session also highlighted the intense competition among the midfield and backmarker teams. Mercedes, with Andrea Kimi Antonelli breaking into the top five, and Aston Martin, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll securing respectable positions, showed promising pace. Sauber also demonstrated unexpected speed, with their drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto making it into the top ten. Conversely, the struggles faced by Yuki Tsunoda and Max Verstappen underscore the critical role of car setup and balance on this demanding circuit. These diverse performances hint at a highly unpredictable and competitive qualifying round, where fine margins will likely dictate significant shifts in the grid.