The European Commission has launched an investigation into Liberty Media’s acquisition of MotoGP, raising concerns over competition and market impact.
An investigation that could delay Liberty Media’s plan, the F1 owner, to also acquire MotoGP has now been officially launched.
When Liberty made its announcement in April, the American company stated that it expected the €4.2 billion deal to be finalized by the end of 2024—pending regulatory approvals.
“We are making progress with the European Commission,” said Liberty’s outgoing CEO Greg Maffei a month ago, “which is the only remaining jurisdictional regulatory hurdle.”
However, Bloomberg reported a few days ago that Europe was indeed planning a detailed investigation, as confirmed by two anonymous sources.
This has now been officially confirmed by the European Commission’s newly appointed competition commissioner, Teresa Ribera Rodriguez.
“By acquiring Dorna Sports, Liberty Media would hold the commercial rights to two of Europe’s most popular motorsports—Formula 1 and MotoGP.”
“We must examine more closely whether this acquisition could negatively impact broadcasters, for example, through higher licensing fees, and ultimately affect consumers and fans via increased costs.”
The argument is that owning both F1 and MotoGP would reduce competition between Liberty Media and MotoGP’s current owner, Dorna Sports, particularly in the allocation of broadcasting rights.
Ribera Rodriguez admitted to having “serious concerns,” especially regarding the interests of broadcasters in smaller national markets, as “it appears that F1 and MotoGP compete closely.”
The investigation will continue until mid-May 2025, with Liberty’s owner, John Malone, under scrutiny due to his “decisive influence over both companies.”
Ribera also stated that Brussels would review “all corroborated statements from the parties regarding the potential benefits the acquisition could bring to fans, the industry, and consumers.”
Liberty Media confirmed the news and expressed confidence in the validity of the transaction: “Liberty Media today received a notice from the European Commission informing us of the opening of a Phase II investigation into the previously announced MotoGP acquisition.”
“We are confident that this transaction will benefit MotoGP’s operations, its fans, its viewers, and the entire motorcycle industry. Market participants have widely recognized the advantages of the transaction.”
“The audiovisual entertainment market is vast and growing, far beyond sports, and this transaction will enhance MotoGP’s ability to compete in this highly competitive market.”
“We will continue to work with the European Commission as its review progresses and have agreed with the sellers to extend the termination date to June 30, 2025, to accommodate the in-depth investigation. We believe the European Commission will ultimately approve the transaction.”
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Liberty Media’s MotoGP Bid Triggers European Investigation Liberty Media’s MotoGP Bid Triggers European Investigation
