Liberty Media, well-known for its success in the world of Formula 1 racing, is now expanding its influence to the realm of motorcycle racing, specifically the MotoGP series. The company is set to take control of MotoGP after receiving approval from the European Commission, signaling a major acquisition in the sports world.
Liberty Media announced on Monday that it received “unconditional” approval to buy an 84% stake in Dorna Sports, the Spain-based organization that holds the rights to MotoGP. This acquisition values Dorna at approximately 4.3 billion euros, or $4.97 billion. According to Derek Chang, president and CEO of Liberty Media, MotoGP is a prized sports asset characterized by thrilling races, a dedicated fanbase, and robust cash flow operations.
Chang expressed optimism regarding the potential for MotoGP’s growth, emphasizing plans to strengthen the bond with core fans while also expanding the sport’s reach to a more global audience. The deal, initially disclosed in April 2024, is projected to be finalized by July 3.
This acquisition process faced delays last December due to a detailed investigation by the European Commission. Concerns were raised about whether the transaction would inflate the cost of broadcasting rights for motorsports events. However, the European Commission concluded that F1 and MotoGP do not compete closely in the market for broadcasting rights, allowing broadcasters to seek alternatives with similar viewership potential.
In light of these findings, the commission stated that the transaction does not eliminate significant competitive pressures between Formula 1 and MotoGP. When Liberty Media took over Formula 1 in 2017, the company swiftly implemented changes under new leadership, moving past the long era dominated by Bernie Ecclestone.
However, Liberty Media plans a different approach with MotoGP, retaining key figures within the organization. While MotoGP’s management will maintain a minority stake, Carmelo Ezpeleta will continue to serve as Dorna’s chief executive. Joining him on the Dorna board will be Chase Carey and Sean Bratches, both influential in Liberty’s efforts to enhance and modernize Formula 1 back in 2017.
Since Liberty Media’s involvement, Formula 1 has garnered a broader audience with the help of the Netflix documentary series “Drive To Survive” and has expanded its race calendar significantly, including prestigious new events in Miami, Las Vegas, and Saudi Arabia.
Currently, MotoGP boasts a 22-race calendar, featuring events in locations unfamiliar to Formula 1 racing such as Indonesia, the Czech Republic, and Thailand, along with regions like Argentina and Malaysia where F1 hasn’t raced for several years. Four MotoGP races take place in Spain and only one in the United States, held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, in March. The track in Austin is one of five circuits hosting both F1 and MotoGP races this year.