F1 News: Liberty Media Confirms Acquisition Of MotoGP In Immense €4.2 Billion Deal

Liberty Media confirms the finalisation of the deal to acquire MotoGP.

Apr 16, 2023; Austin, TX, USA; Apr 16, 2023; Austin, TX, USA; Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) of Italy of / Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports

Liberty Media has finalised the acquisition of MotoGP's commercial rights, sealing the deal at an impressive €4.2 billion.

Key Takeaways:

• Liberty Media officially acquires MotoGP's commercial rights, with the deal valued at €4.2 billion.
• The acquisition aims to broaden MotoGP's global fanbase.
• Dorna Sports CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, lauds the deal as a pivotal moment for MotoGP's evolution and future growth prospects.

Apr 16, 2023; Austin, TX, USA; MotoGP racers move to turn nineteen during the Red Bull Grand Prix of / Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports

Liberty Media, the commercial rights holder of Formula One, has confirmed the acquisition of MotoGP. The deal leaves Liberty Media with an 86% stake and MotoGP management with 14%.

Greg Maffei, President and CEO of Liberty Media, revealed his excitement about this acquisition, noting MotoGP's solid financial foundation, captivating racing events, and a devoted fan following. Maffei's vision for MotoGP includes broadening its reach and appeal, thereby enhancing value for fans, teams, and commercial partners alike. He commented in a statement:

“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP.

“MotoGP is a global league with a loyal, enthusiastic fan base, captivating racing and a highly cash flow generative financial profile. Carmelo and his management team have built a great sporting spectacle that we can expand to a wider global audience. The business has significant upside, and we intend to grow the sport for MotoGP fans, teams, commercial partners and our shareholders.”

Apr 15, 2023; Austin, TX, USA; Aleix Espargaro (41) of Spain and Aprilia Racingand Jorge Martin (89) / Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports

Carmelo Ezpeleta, the CEO of Dorna, the entity previously at the helm of MotoGP, echoed Maffei's sentiments. He praised the sport's global stature and expressed optimism about the partnership with Liberty Media. Ezpeleta views this deal as a testament to the sport's current value and its growth potential under Liberty's stewardship.

“This is the perfect next step in the evolution of MotoGP, and we are excited for what this milestone brings to Dorna, the MotoGP paddock and racing fans.

“We are proud of the global sport we’ve grown, and this transaction is a testament to the value of the sport today and its growth potential. Liberty has an incredible track record in developing sports assets and we could not wish for a better partner to expand MotoGP’s fanbase around the world.”

This acquisition comes on the heels of intense speculation and discussions between Liberty Media and Dorna Sports. Despite potential regulatory hurdles reminiscent of past interventions by European competition authorities, the deal's closure marks a significant triumph for both parties involved.

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