Alpinestars, the Italian manufacturer of protective gear that supplies motorcycle racers, is drawing takeover interest from Asian private-equity firms Fountain Vest and HSG, according to people familiar with the matter.

They are among the potential buyers that have separately been weighing offers for the closely held company, the people said, requesting anonymity because the talks are private. Alpinestars has been working with an adviser to explore a sale that could value the business at about 1 billion ($1.2 billion), the people said.

Other bidders have also been vying to buy Alpinestars, the people said. Talks are still underway and no decisions have been made, the people said.

"Alpinestars regularly receives investment proposals and evaluates them in the context of its long-term strategic objectives and growth plans," the Italian company said in an email. "The company remains fully committed to executing its long-term growth strategy, investing in product innovation, advancing motorcycling and cycling safety and expanding our global presence."

A Fountain Vest spokesman did not respond to queries. HSG declined to comment.

Asian private-equity firms have been eyeing opportunities in Europe as they seek to expand into foreign markets that will fuel their growth. HSG has invested in Italian sneaker brand Golden Goose and the audio equipment maker Marshall, and Fountain Vest has looked at a range of European assets.

Motorcycling has gained popularity in China in recent years after a local maker ZXMoto emerged victorious at some races for the 2026 WorldSSP championship earlier this year. HSG has a stake in ZXMoto.

Alpinestars was set up in 1963 and is controlled by the Mazzarolo family. It sells protective gear such as boots, helmets, jackets and gloves for use by motorcycle racers and teams in the MotoGP series as well as in Formula One racing. It also makes airbag safety systems and sportswear.

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Tanu