Greg Maffei, at the helm of Liberty Media, which holds the commercial rights for Formula 1, recently addressed speculations head-on, negating any plans of fully merging F1 with the newly acquired MotoGP series.
As the motorsport world rebounded from the Easter break, it became public knowledge that Liberty Media had finalized the purchase of MotoGP in an eye-watering deal surpassing $4 billion, stirring up conversations about potential joint F1-MotoGP racing events. Nevertheless, Liberty Media’s announcement clarified that MotoGP will continue its operations independently out of Madrid, retaining Carmelo Ezpeleta as its longstanding figurehead.
Maffei elaborated to the press, “The only thing we are not going to do is run MotoGP and Formula 1 together, both for regulatory issues and for the structure of our agreement with F1 partners and teams.”
He highlighted the primary aim to elevate MotoGP’s standing to match F1’s, focusing on the media dynamics and enhancing appeal beyond its traditional strongholds in Italy, Spain, and France.
“I’d like to think that we have an idea of how the media landscape is evolving, and how to make the product attractive to partners outside of the traditional base of Italy, Spain and France,” Maffei remarked, indicating a strategic vision for expanding MotoGP’s global footprint. He further noted, “But as MotoGP is in a better position than F1 was when Liberty intervened, there won’t be as many changes. The existing format, with the longest race being 45 minutes, is already perfect for the young American public, both male and female. As soon as it gains some resonance, they will love this sport.”
Reinforcing the autonomy of both series, Maffei firmly stated, “MotoGP and F1 will remain separate,” ensuring fans of both premier motorsport categories that the distinctive identities and formats of each will be preserved under Liberty Media’s stewardship.
GMM
