In July, rumours emerged regarding Lewis Hamilton and his interest in acquiring a MotoGP team, with speculation about potential negotiations with the Gresini team. These rumours gained momentum following statements by Gregg Maffei, CEO of Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1 and close to completing the acquisition of MotoGP promoter Dorna.
At a Goldman Sachs conference, Maffei revealed that several people, including Hamilton, had demonstrated an interest in buying a MotoGP team after the acquisition was announced. When we confirmed that we were going to acquire MotoGP, people like Lewis Hamilton contacted us immediatelyThey saw what we did with Formula 1 and want to join the movement. »
Lewis Hamilton, a big fan of MotoGP, has already had the opportunity to ride a bike in the premier class. Although he denied rumours of an imminent acquisition, he did not hide his interest in the sport: " I have always liked MotoGP. I am interested in the growth of the sport, but I have not yet looked into it. Everything is possible » Hamilton has already taken a first step into team ownership with the Denver Broncos in the NFL and does not rule out expanding its involvement in the next five to ten years.
Liberty Medium announced in April the acquisition of Dorna for an amount of 4,2 billion euros, an agreement they hope to finalize by the end of 2024 after approval by the European Union. Gregg Maffei highlighted the global appeal of MotoGP, particularly in Spain, Italy and France, while acknowledging its low impact in the United States. Liberty hopes to replicate F1 success by revitalizing MotoGP in the United States and elsewhere : " This is an incredibly exciting product, but still too little known in the United States. We believe there is an opportunity to expand it ».
Lewis Hamilton: “ I think in the next five to ten years there will be more. We'll see where it takes us. »
Liberty Medium seems determined to strengthen the presence of MotoGP, especially in USA. The CEO mentioned the possibility of adding a second American race to capitalise on the growing interest. Additionally, initiatives such as improving the TV experience and highlighting drivers and behind-the-scenes content, as was the case with F1's Drive to Survive, could be replicated to attract new audiences.
For the moment, Hamilton is cautious, but his interest in a possible participation in MotoGP remains evident. Gregg Maffei confirmed that discussions are ongoing, but that everything will depend on the finalization of the acquisition by Liberty Medium and EU approval. In the meantime, the seven-time F1 champion is keeping the door open: " I think in the next five to ten years there will be more. We'll see where it takes us. »
With Liberty Medium at the helm and personalities like Hamilton ready to get involved, the MotoGP could enter a new era of global expansion and popularity, especially in the US market.
