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EU Gives Green Light to Liberty Media’s Acquisition of MotoGP Owner Dorna Sports

By  |  June 23, 2025

Liberty Media’s multi-billion-euro purchase of MotoGP parent company Dorna Sports has received unconditional approval from the European Commission, clearing the way for the Formula One owner to expand further into global motorsports.

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    The transaction, valued at approximately €4 billion ($4.6 billion), had been under scrutiny by EU antitrust authorities, but regulators concluded that the deal would not harm competition in the sports broadcasting market. Per Reuters, Liberty Media had argued that acquiring Dorna would allow it to elevate the profile and global reach of MotoGP, the premier motorcycle racing championship.

    According to a statement from the European Commission, the merger raised no significant competition concerns. “Based on the evidence gathered, the Commission found that on such markets the companies are not close competitors for the licensing of broadcasting rights for sports content,” the Commission said. “Therefore, the transaction will not remove important competitive constraints between Formula 1 and MotoGP.”

    Read more: EU Probes Liberty Media’s $3.8 Billion MotoGP Acquisition

    Liberty Media’s CEO, Derek Chang, emphasized the strategic value of the acquisition following the announcement. “Today’s approval from the European Commission marks the final condition to closing Liberty’s acquisition of MotoGP,” Chang said, highlighting the strong commercial prospects of the series.

    As reported by Reuters, the Commission’s clearance had been anticipated since April, when sources indicated regulators were leaning toward approval. Liberty Media will acquire 84% of Dorna Sports, giving the deal an enterprise value of €4.3 billion and an equity value of €3.7 billion.

    With Formula One already under its umbrella, Liberty Media is poised to leverage its global sports media infrastructure to boost MotoGP’s visibility and fan engagement. Per Reuters, Chang expressed confidence that MotoGP’s combination of “incredible racing, a passionate fanbase, and a strong cash flow profile” offers a solid foundation for future growth.

    Source: Reuters