Liberty Media to Complete MotoGP Takeover After Gaining Full Approval

Liberty Media is finally set to complete its takeover of MotoGP and WorldSBK after receiving full approval from the European Commission.

More than a year since it confirmed plans to buy MotoGP, Liberty Media is now set to confirm plans to take over 84 per cent ownership of the series, with Dorna Sports retaining the other 16 per cent.

The deal is now expected to be completed on or before 3 July, which marks a new era for both championships as they will be majority-owned by the same power figures that own Formula One.

The deal was originally held up after an investigation into Liberty Media’s bid to buy MotoGP was launched. However, back in April we confirmed that the European Commission, which acts on behalf of the European Union’s competition affairs, was set to approve the deal.

“We are very happy that the European Commission has approved the transaction. This is an important milestone confirming the even brighter future that lies ahead,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports.

“MotoGP is one of the most thrilling sports on Earth, and we look forward to accelerating the sport’s growth and expanding its reach to even more fans around the world. Liberty is the best possible partner for our sport and the entire community, and we are excited to create even greater value for our fans, commercial partners and everyone competing.”

Liberty Media has helped take Formula One to new heights in terms of viewership and overall interest since it took over the role of owner of the series, and the hope is that similar results will happen with MotoGP and WorldSBK.

A statement from WorldSBK officials said the decision to grant Liberty Media’s takeover of the two series’ was granted with ‘unconditional approval’. 

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