Breaking News: Liberty Media Accelerates Two-Wheel Domination with MotoGP Acquisition

Rev up your engines, folks, because Liberty Media Corporation is making waves once again in the world of motorsports. Known as the powerhouse behind Formula 1, Liberty Media has just announced a game-changing move: the acquisition of Dorna Sports, the esteemed owner of MotoGP and WorldSBK.

For those not in the know, MotoGP isn’t just another motorcycle race—it’s the epitome of two-wheeled adrenaline. Picture 22 of the fastest riders tearing up the track on purpose-built prototype motorcycles, hitting mind-boggling speeds of over 360 kilometers per hour.

Since its inception in 1949 with just six European rounds, MotoGP has evolved into a global phenomenon, boasting over 20 Grands Prix across five continents and captivating audiences in the hundreds of millions worldwide.

Under this groundbreaking agreement, Dorna Sports S.L., the driving force behind MotoGP, will maintain its autonomy within Liberty Media’s Formula One Group tracking stock. And fear not, fans—Carmelo Ezpeleta, the visionary CEO who’s been steering the ship since 1994, will continue to lead the charge alongside his seasoned management team from the bustling streets of Madrid.

But MotoGP isn’t the only jewel in Dorna’s crown. The company also holds exclusive rights to a slew of other adrenaline-pumping motorcycle racing series, including the Moto2 and Moto3 feeder series, the electrifying MotoE World Championship, the heart-pounding WorldSBK Championship, and the groundbreaking FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship.

So, what’s the deal? Liberty Media will snag approximately 86% of Dorna, while the management team retains around 14% of their equity in the business. The acquisition rings in at a staggering enterprise value of €4.2 billion, with an equity value of €3.5 billion, and MotoGP’s existing debt balance will remain untouched post-close.

Greg Maffei, the President and CEO of Liberty Media, couldn’t contain his excitement: “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio with the acquisition of MotoGP. With its global fan base, captivating racing, and robust financial profile, MotoGP is a goldmine waiting to be unleashed. We’re eager to work alongside Carmelo and his team to elevate MotoGP to new heights, reaching fans far and wide.”

And Carmelo Ezpeleta echoes the sentiment: “This is a monumental moment for MotoGP and Dorna. With Liberty Media’s expertise, we’re poised to take MotoGP to unprecedented levels of success. Together, we’ll ignite the passion of fans across the globe and usher in a new era for motorcycle racing.”

Buckle up, racing enthusiasts, because the MotoGP journey is about to kick into high gear. With Liberty Media at the helm, the future of two-wheeled racing has never looked brighter.

photos: MotoGP