In the world of sports acquisitions, Liberty Media, already the master of Formula 1, had its eyes fixed on a new trophy: MotoGP. Announced with great fanfare in April last year, the American's ambition to roar its engine into the world of two-wheelers seemed unstoppable. But like a driver who takes a corner too sharply, the acquisition skidded into the bureaucratic sands of Brussels. The European Commission, far from giving the green light, instead put its foot on the brake.
The proposed acquisition of Dorna Sports, MotoGP rights holder, by Liberty Medium, already the owner of Formula 1, is at the heart of a complex legal battle. The European competition authorities have opened an in-depth investigation, thus considerably delaying the finalization of this operation.
MotoGP's acquisition Liberty Medium, owner of the rights to Formula 1, was initially expected to materialize in start 2025, but the transaction was delayed after the Commission opened a Phase II investigation, marking a decisive step in the evaluation of the impact of this acquisition on competition, particularly in the area of sports content broadcasting rights.
Phase II Investigation is not just a superficial reassessment, but an in-depth analysis that looks at the reduction of competition between Liberty Media and Dorna Sports in the granting of broadcast licensesThe Commission raised concerns about the impact of the acquisition on competition, noting that it could strengthen the position of Liberty Media et Dorna vis-à-vis sports content providers, which could lead to higher prices.
One of the key points raised is the dominance of the Formula 1 on the European market, where the MotoGP is its main competitor. The Commission has thus highlighted the risks of this acquisition for European national markets, where competition could be significantly reduced.
This deadline imposed by Brussels means a delay of almost a season on Liberty Media and Dorna plans
Le May 14, 2025 is the deadline set by the Commission to make a final decision on the acquisition. Although the process is taking longer than expected, Liberty Medium remains optimistic. The American giant, with its experience in the field of acquiring and managing sports rights, is confident that it can overcome the legal obstacles and obtain the necessary approval. In response to these delays, Formula 1's commercial department has been transferred to a new company, allowing Liberty Medium to reposition itself while awaiting a resolution.
Pending EU approval, Dorna SportsLed by Carmelo Ezpeleta, continues to focus on his long-term goals for MotoGP. Ezpeleta expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to collaborate with Liberty Medium, but also stressed that the company was pursuing its own development strategy. We are determined to pursue our strategy aimed at taking the sport to new heights and continuing our impressive growth rate" , did he declare. Dorna remains confident, with the goal of reaching a global fan base of more than 500 million people, despite the uncertainties linked to the acquisition by Liberty Medium.
This deadline imposed by Brussels has a direct impact on the plans of Liberty Medium and Dorna. The initially expected timeline for the completion of the acquisition will be delayed by approximately one season, also delaying the expected benefits of this partnership. This means that the expected positive effects of this takeover, such as new business strategies and strengthened partnerships, will have to wait. In the meantime, the 2025 MotoGP season will start as planned, under the current management of Dorna Sports.
Although MotoGP's acquisition Liberty Media is awaiting approval from the European Commission, the parties concerned remain optimistic. The coming weeks and months will be decisive for the future of the MotoGP and its potential integration into the sports empire of Liberty Media.