Although the latest information about Dorna’s acquisition by Liberty Media, which started more than a year ago, indicated that there would be no problem and that the European Commission would be in favor of the operation, we have had to wait until now for official confirmation. In that sense, this is the starting gun or rather continuation of the operation, which seems closed in the absence of the necessary efforts.
In this way, Liberty Media will be done with the majority participation of Dorna and all the rights it has, including the jewel of the crown that is MotoGP. As indicated by the official statement, the agreement is expected to be closed before July 3, when Liberty Media will be made with 84% of the actions of Dorna Sports.
Liberty Media will be the majority shareholder, but Ezpeleta will continue to the front as CEO
The remaining 16% of the company’s shares will be in the hands of the current MotoGP address. An address that will continue with Carmelo Ezpeleta in front, occupying the CEO position that has been since 1998 and will also keep your management team.
In this way, in an unprecedented event, the two maximum disciplines of the world engine such as F1 and MotoGP will be under the same roof. Precisely that, added with the rights of issuance of the championships and the dominant position in certain countries of the European Union, were the points analyzed before giving the approval that will culminate with the sale in a few days.
«Today’s approval by the European Commission marks the fulfillment of the last condition to close the acquisition of MotoGP by Liberty. We are delighted to officially start this alliance with Carmelo and its excellent management team, ”said Derek Chang, president and CEO of Liberty Media.
MotoGP is a highly attractive premium sports asset, with an incredible level of competition, a base of passionate fans and a solid financial profile. We believe that both sport and brand have a huge growth potential, which we hope to materialize deepening the connection with the most faithful followers and expanding to a broader global audience ».
For his part, Carmelo Ezpeleta added: “We are very happy that the European Commission has approved the operation. This is an important milestone that confirms the even more promising future that awaits MotoGP. MotoGP is one of the most exciting sports in the world, and we are looking forward to accelerating its growth and taking it to even more fans throughout the planet. Liberty is the best possible partner for our sport and for the entire MotoGP community, and we are excited to create even more value for our followers, commercial partners and all those who compete ».
