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In a significant move, Liberty Media Corporation has agreed to acquire MotoGP™, cementing its dominance in two-wheeled racing. MotoGP™ hailed as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, dates back to 1949 and features 22 of the fastest riders on purpose-built prototype motorcycles. Held on renowned racetracks worldwide, MotoGP™ enthrals spectators with speeds surpassing 360 kilometres per hour/223 miles per hour.
Under the acquisition deal, Liberty Media will integrate Dorna Sports S.L., the exclusive rights holder of MotoGP™, into its Formula One Group tracking stock. Dorna Sports S.L. will maintain its independence, with Carmelo Ezpeleta continuing as CEO since 1994. The company’s headquarters in Madrid will remain operational, ensuring seamless management and operations continuity.
Under the terms of the agreement, Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% of Dorna. On the other hand, the existing management team will retain around 14% equity. The transaction, valued at €4.2 billion in enterprise value and €3.5 billion in equity, underscores the robust financial standing and growth potential of MotoGP™. Importantly, MotoGP’s™ existing debt balance is anticipated to remain unchanged post-acquisition.
Greg Maffei, Liberty Media’s President and CEO, is excited about the acquisition. He highlights MotoGP’s™ global appeal, passionate fan base, and financial success. Maffei stresses Liberty Media’s dedication to expanding MotoGP’s™ reach and improving the fan, team, partner, and shareholder experience.
In response, Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna’s CEO, sees the acquisition as crucial for MotoGP’s™ evolution. He acknowledges the sport’s value and growth potential. Ezpeleta trusts Liberty Media’s ability to develop sports assets and expects MotoGP’s™ global fan base to expand under their guidance.
The acquisition is set to conclude by the end of 2024, pending regulatory approvals. As MotoGP™ enters this new phase under Liberty Media, racing enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the next wave of innovation and growth in motorcycle racing.