BREAKING NEWS: Hamilton’s Interest in MotoGP Sparked by…read more
Hamilton’s Interest in MotoGP Sparked by…read more
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, expressed immediate interest in purchasing a MotoGP team following Liberty Media’s efforts to take over the premier motorcycle racing series, according to Greg Maffei, president and CEO of Liberty Media. This revelation came during the Goldman Sachs Communacopia and Technology Conference, where Maffei shared insights into the company’s investment strategies and how it triggered reactions from major industry figures.
Maffei explained that Liberty Media’s announced intent to acquire MotoGP prompted a surge of interest from prominent individuals, including Hamilton, who saw the potential in the sport following Liberty’s successful management of Formula 1. “When we announced, we had people immediately call up and say ‘I want to buy a team’, including people like Lewis Hamilton,” said Maffei. “Why? Because they saw what had happened in Formula 1 and they want to follow.” This move aligns with Hamilton’s diverse interests in motorsport, having previously dabbled in MotoGP events and shared his passion for motorcycles.
Liberty Media’s MotoGP Acquisition Awaiting EU Approval
Liberty Media’s interest in MotoGP follows its highly successful acquisition of Formula 1, a deal that has seen the sport grow its global audience, particularly in key markets like the United States. Under their stewardship, F1 has gained new commercial partners, implemented technological innovations, and revamped its media approach, turning the sport into a more fan-centric experience.
However, Liberty Media’s deal to take over MotoGP is not yet complete. The acquisition is currently awaiting approval from the European Union, as the regulatory body is required to ensure that the deal will not restrict competition in the sport. Maffei noted that while Liberty has seen significant interest from distributors and commercial entities eager to get involved, negotiations and discussions remain paused until they receive the green light from the EU. “Unfortunately, I had to tell them we really can’t talk about it until we get EU approval, but we’d love to talk once we get it,” he added.