F1 owners buy MotoGP for $4.5 billion

Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1, has acquired MotoGP in a deal valued at $4.5 billion. The US media conglomerate, which gained control of F1 in 2017, has purchased the motorcycle racing series from Dorna Sports, a Spanish company that has held MotoGP since 1992. Under the agreement, Liberty will obtain approximately 86% of Dorna, while the management of Dorna will retain the remaining ownership. The transaction is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.

Greg Maffei, President and CEO of Liberty Media, expressed excitement about expanding their live sports portfolio, stating, “MotoGP is a global league with a devoted fan base, thrilling racing, and strong financial performance.” He emphasized the significant potential for growth in the sport, aiming to enhance the experience for fans, teams, commercial partners, and shareholders.

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Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna, highlighted Liberty’s successful track record in developing sports assets. He remarked on the value and growth potential of MotoGP, expressing pride in the global sport they have cultivated over the years.

The MotoGP series, which began in 1949 with six rounds of racing, has since expanded to a 20-grands prix campaign spanning five continents. Currently, Spanish rider Jorge Martin leads the championship with 60 points, followed by Brad Binder of South Africa with 42 points.