Liberty Media has recently announced its agreement to acquire MotoGP, marking a significant move in the world of motorcycle racing. Under the terms of the deal, Dorna Sports, the exclusive commercial and television rights holder of MotoGP, will continue to operate independently as part of Liberty Media’s Formula One Group tracking stock. Carmelo Ezpeleta, who has served as CEO of Dorna since 1994, will remain in his position along with his management team, and the company will remain headquartered in Madrid.
In addition to MotoGP, Dorna holds exclusive rights to several other motorcycle racing series, including Moto2 and Moto3, the FIM Enel MotoE World Championship, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, and the new FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship.
Under the acquisition agreement, Liberty Media will purchase approximately 86 percent of Dorna, while Dorna management will retain around 14 percent of their equity in the company. The transaction values Dorna/MotoGP at €4.2 billion in terms of enterprise value and €3.5 billion in equity value. MotoGP’s existing debt balance is expected to remain unchanged following the completion of the acquisition.
“We are excited to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP,” stated Greg Maffei, President and CEO of Liberty Media. “MotoGP boasts a global league with a dedicated fan base, thrilling racing, and strong financial performance. Carmelo and his team have created an outstanding sporting spectacle, and we look forward to growing the sport further for MotoGP fans, teams, commercial partners, and our shareholders.”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna, also expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting it as a pivotal moment in the evolution of MotoGP. “We are proud of the global sport we’ve cultivated, and this transaction underscores its current value and potential for growth,” he said. “Liberty Media’s track record in developing sports assets makes them the perfect partner to expand MotoGP’s global fanbase.”
The acquisition is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024, subject to approval by competition and foreign investment authorities in relevant jurisdictions.
