Liberty Media Expands its Sports Empire with MotoGP Acquisition
Formula 1 powerhouse Liberty Media has made a significant stride into the world of motorbike racing with the acquisition of MotoGP in a landmark deal valued at £3.6 billion. The US-based media conglomerate, known for its acquisition of F1 in 2017, has sealed the purchase from Dorna Sports, the Spanish company that has held the reins of MotoGP since 1992.
The agreement entails Liberty gaining approximately 86% ownership of Dorna, with the existing management retaining the remaining stake. Pending official approval, the transaction is slated for completion by year-end, marking a pivotal moment in the motorsport landscape.
Greg Maffei, President, and CEO of Liberty Media, expressed excitement about the venture, stating, “We are thrilled to diversify our live sports portfolio with the addition of MotoGP. With its global appeal, dedicated fan base, and robust financial performance, MotoGP presents substantial growth opportunities.”
Maffei emphasized MotoGP’s universal allure, characterized by passionate fans and exhilarating races spanning diverse terrains. He outlined Liberty’s commitment to nurturing the sport’s potential, benefiting fans, teams, partners, and shareholders alike.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna, hailed Liberty’s track record in sports development, underscoring MotoGP’s evolution into a premier global spectacle. He lauded the sport’s present value and future prospects, underscoring its enduring appeal on the world stage.
Since its inception in 1949, MotoGP has evolved from a modest six-round series into a thrilling 20-grand prix extravaganza, traversing five continents. The current championship sees Spanish sensation Jorge Martin leading the pack with 60 points, closely trailed by South Africa’s Brad Binder with 42 points.
