Liberty Media has received unconditional approval from the European Commission to complete the acquisition of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, and is expected to close the transaction by July 3, 2025.
The ultimate regulatory green light paves the way for F1 owners to begin a new chapter in MotoGP history.
Liberty earns 84% of Dorna Sports, with the remaining 16% being retained by existing MotoGP management.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, who has been CEO of Dorna since 1998, will continue to work with MotoGP along with his longtime team.
“Today’s approval from the European Commission identifies the final conditions for ending Liberty’s MotoGP acquisition,” said Derek Chang, president and CEO of Liberty Media. “We are thrilled to officially launch Liberty’s partnership with Carmelo and his outstanding management team.
“MotoGP is a highly attractive premium sports asset with incredible racing, a passionate fanbase and a strong cash flow profile. We believe there is great growth potential for sports and brands.
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Ezpeleta welcomed the EU’s decision and said the arrival of Liberty Media is a pivotal step in the evolution of MotoGP.
“We are extremely pleased that the European Commission has approved the transaction,” Ezpereta said. “This is an important milestone that confirms the brighter future beyond MotoGP.
“MotoGP is one of the most thrilling sports on the planet and we look forward to accelerating the growth of the sport and expanding its scope to even more fans around the world.
“Liberty is the best partner possible in our sport and across the MotoGP community, and we are excited to create even greater value for our fans, commercial partners and all our competitors.”
The deal valued MotoGP at 4.2 billion euros and positioned Liberty Media, replicating the commercially successful conversion of F1, which saw a surge in global profits since its 2017 acquisition.
Details of MotoGP’s Liberty strategic plans are expected to follow after the deal officially shuts down in early July.