Long-serving KTM CEO Stefan Pierer has officially stepped down from the company’s board of directors with Gottfried Neumeister replacing him.
This marks the end of an era for the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, which has grown into a global powerhouse under Pierer’s leadership.
Stefan Pierer steps down from his role as KTM CEO amidst a period of financial restructuring, signaling both challenges and opportunities for the company as it charts a new course under fresh leadership.
Pierer’s association with KTM dates back to 1992 when he joined the management board. Over the next three decades, he transformed the company from a regional motorcycle brand into an internationally recognized leader in innovation and performance.
His tenure was marked by rapid expansion and record-breaking sales, with KTM becoming synonymous with cutting-edge technology and high-performance motorcycles.
However, recent financial struggles have necessitated significant changes at the company, leading to Stefan Pierer’s decision to step down from the executive board entirely.
The restructuring process at KTM has been one of the most critical moments in its history. Facing debts exceeding €2 billion, the company has been navigating insolvency proceedings since late 2024.
In February 2025, creditors approved a restructuring plan that requires KTM to repay 30% of its outstanding debts by May 23, 2025. This plan has provided a lifeline for the company, allowing it to avoid liquidation and continue operations.
READ ALSO: KTM’s bankruptcy the largest Upper Austria as creditors file €2.2 billion claim in court
Gottfried Neumeister becomes new KTM CEO
As part of this process, Stefan Pierer handed over his CEO responsibilities earlier this year to Gottfried Neumeister, who has now taken full control of the company’s management.
Pierer’s departure from the board is seen as a strategic move to facilitate KTM’s transition into its next phase. In his statement announcing his resignation, he expressed confidence in Neumeister’s ability to lead the company successfully into the future.
“I wish Gottfried Neumeister all the best from the bottom of my heart,” the 68-year-old said. “In him I have found the perfect successor and I am firmly convinced that he will lead the company successfully into the future.”
Incoming KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister, for his part, acknowledged Pierer’s immense contributions to the company and underlined his commitment to preserving and building upon that legacy.
“I would like to thank Stefan Pierer for his trust in allowing me to continue his life’s work,“ he said. “I see it as an honour and an obligation to continue the history of KTM and to break new ground together with our great employees.”
Pierer’s departure also coincides with broader changes within KTM’s leadership structure. Verena Schneglberger-Grossmann, previously head of KTM’s legal department, has been appointed to the board of directors. Her inclusion reflects an effort to strengthen governance as the company navigates its financial recovery.
The next step for KTM
The financial challenges faced by KTM have been significant but not insurmountable. The restructuring plan includes a €548 million repayment to creditors by May 2025 and additional investments totaling €900 million from various entities, including Bajaj Auto, which owns a 49% stake in the company.
Bajaj has already pledged €50 million to restart production at KTM’s Mattighofen facility, which had been paused during the winter months. Production is expected to resume in mid-March 2025.
Despite these efforts, uncertainties remain about KTM’s future direction, particularly regarding its MotoGP project.
The racing division has faced speculation about a potential withdrawal due to financial constraints. However, such discussions have cooled in recent months as KTM focuses on stabilizing its core business operations.
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- KTM MotoGP development grinds to a halt amid bankruptcy fears
- KTM’s MotoGP exit ‘planned’ for 2026 amid insolvency proceedings
The company’s performance in 2025 MotoGP has been mixed so far, with Pedro Acosta suffering an early crash in last weekend’s Thailand GP and Brad Binder finishing eighth—a result that underscores the challenges ahead.
