Liberty Media Gets Official Green Light to Acquire MotoGP

According to the European Commission’s official statement, the regulatory body has granted unconditional approval for Liberty Media Corporation — the commercial rights holder of Formula 1 — to acquire Dorna Sports.

The $4.2 billion deal will give Liberty Media 86% ownership of Dorna, while the management team led by Carmelo Ezpeleta and Enrique Aldama will retain the remaining 14%.

The approval process took over a year since the initial announcement, with the European Commission conducting an in-depth investigation regarding potential impacts on competition in the European race broadcasting rights market.

“According to Liberty Media, the transaction will enable it to leverage its expertise in media, sports, and entertainment — Formula 1 included — to increase MotoGP’s popularity and appeal,” stated the European Commission.

Following this acquisition, both parties will form a joint working group aimed at developing the MotoGP World Championship across all levels and territories. The main focus will be directed toward increasing reach and penetrating strategic markets — particularly the United States — to boost TV audiences and attract major sponsors.