P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Formula 1 owner Liberty Media has agreed a deal to take over F1’s two-wheeled counterpart MotoGP through the acquisition of its promoter Dorna Sports
“Liberty Media, owner of Formula 1, has finalized a deal to acquire MotoGP’s promoter Dorna Sports, extending its reach in the motorsport industry. The acquisition was officially announced on April 1st, after speculation regarding Liberty’s interest in MotoGP gained momentum in recent days. With this move, Dorna will become part of Liberty’s ‘Formula One Group tracking stock,’ maintaining its existing management team led by Carlos Ezpeleta. Liberty’s President and CEO, Greg Maffei, praised MotoGP’s global fan base and revenue potential, expressing plans for expansion and growth under their stewardship. The acquisition, valued at €4.2 billion enterprise and €3.5 billion equity, will grant Liberty approximately 86% ownership of Dorna. The agreement is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals, including scrutiny by the European Union’s monopolies commission. Despite these changes, Dorna, which also manages the World Superbike championship, is set to remain autonomously operated under Liberty Media’s leadership.”
