Liberty Media, the American giant that already owns Formula 1, is about to take a decisive step in its planned acquisition of MotoGP. According to Reuters, the European Union is preparing to give its unconditional antitrust green light to the deal, valued at €3,5 billion ($3,8 billion). Sources close to the matter, cited by the agency, confirm that the European Commission, which guarantees competition within the 27 EU countries, is expected to validate the deal without demanding any concessions. The deadline for this decision is July 1, 2025, and everything seems to indicate that Liberty Media is on the path to successfully integrating MotoGP into its portfolio.
Liberty Medium, owner of the Formula 1, is getting closer to finalizing its acquisition of 86% of MotoGP. According to information reported by Reuters, the European Commission is expected to give the transaction its unconditional antitrust green light, marking a significant milestone for the US group. The deal was awaiting approval from the European Commission, particularly on competition issues in the media rights sector.
The sale, announced one year ago, stipulates that Dorna, holder of the commercial rights to MotoGP, will retain 14% of the capitalThe EU, after investigating the potential implications of this transaction, appears ready to give its approval without restriction. This development comes after a thorough study of the impact this acquisition could have on competition in the television and sports sectors in general, particularly if Liberty Medium could exclude other broadcasters from this very lucrative market.
Colossal $3,8 billion deal nears completion for Liberty Media
The deadline for concluding the agreement is set at July 1st, and validation by the European Commission will allow Liberty Medium to strengthen its position in the world of sport, particularly audiovisual entertainment. A spokesperson for Liberty Medium said : " There is a very large and growing market for audiovisual entertainment far beyond sports, and the transaction will strengthen MotoGP's ability to compete in this highly competitive market ».
However, some observers are concerned that the acquisition could increase television broadcasting rights, because Liberty Medium would then hold the rights to two of the biggest motorsport competitions, Formula 1 and MotoGP. The investigation also covered John Malone, the main shareholder of Liberty Media, and its ability to decisively influence both entities, raising concerns about competition. But according to the latest reports, this obstacle seems about to be overcome.
With this approval imminent, Liberty Medium could well redefine the way MotoGP is broadcast and marketed globally, providing new opportunities for the growth of the competition.
