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Pierre Gasly sets F1 driver first with Guenther Steiner partnership
racingnews365.com·

Pierre Gasly sets F1 driver first with Guenther Steiner partnership

Pierre Gasly has become the first active F1 driver to invest in a MotoGP team, forming part of an investor group behind Guenther Steiner's Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. At the start of this year, former Haas team principal Steiner became CEO of Tech 3 as he switched from four wheels to two, joining forces with Richard Coleman, a touring car veteran and sports management specialist, who has become team principal. Along with IKON Capital, Steiner and Coleman completed a takeover of Tech3, which has today announced its full ownership structure. Bolt Ventures and Main Street Advisors have now bolstered the acquisition. In addition, Alpine driver Gasly is among a range of names in the investor group. He said: "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." Gasly has beaten the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen to the punch in terms of MotoGP investment, as both drivers have been linked with a move in the past. It is not Gasly's first venture into sports investment. Two years ago, he became a joint shareholder of third-tier French football club, FC Versailles. The overall investment in Tech3 is significant, as outlined by Steiner. "It’s a very exciting time to be entering MotoGP, and it was important to IKON Capital and me to bring together a group of like-minded investors who share a long-term vision for the Tech3 team," he said. "We are joined by a strong group that understands motorsport, brings genuine value-added capabilities, and shares our core values. "Just as importantly, we are committed to preserving Tech3’s heritage while taking a measured, strategic approach to growth. This is about building on what already works, and I’m looking forward to working together to shape the team’s future." Bolt Ventures is fronted by David Blitzer, a managing partner of the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and NHL's New Jersey Devils, whilst Main Street Advisors was founded by Paul Wachter, who is also a partner at Fenway Sports Group, whose ownership portfolio includes English Premier League side Liverpool and MLB's Boston Red Sox.

McLaren announce major multi-year partnership
racingnews365.com·

McLaren announce major multi-year partnership

McLaren has announced a major multi-year partnership with global sports company Puma, becoming the team's official kit partner. As part of the new deal, Puma will create not only team kit for the Formula 1 team but every outfit under the McLaren Racing umbrella.  It means Puma will produce the kit for the McLaren Formula 1 Team, the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team, both McLaren Racing entries in F1 Academy, McLaren F1 Sim Racing Team, and from 2027, the McLaren United AS WEC Hypercar Team. "Our sport is in incredible shape and it’s been fantastic to see an influx of major fashion and lifestyle brands who are looking for deep and meaningful ways to engage with our growing global fanbase," said McLaren CEO, Zak Brown.  "I cannot think of a better partner than sportswear giant PUMA to help us supercharge our portfolio of fan wear. We know fans want to express their passion for our sport both at and away from track, and PUMA’s innovative approach to design and culture will offer exciting collections and experiences worldwide." Puma will also create the Replica Collection which will mirror what is being worn by the team, for customers to purchase should they wish. In addition, a Lifestyle Collection will also be made. "At PUMA, we are very proud of our long and successful history in motorsports and having worked with some of the greatest drivers and teams in the industry over the past decades," said Puma CEO, Arthur Höeld. "It is a great honour to write the next chapter by welcoming McLaren Racing, the 2025 Constructors’ and Drivers’ Champions, as our new partners.  "We are looking forward to many successful races together and engaging with the team’s passionate fans around the world to create inspiring collections for them that show the best both brands have to offer."