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Lewis Hamilton ‘makes immediate call to Liberty Media’ and considers huge financial offer

Liberty Media’s CEO, Greg Maffei, recently confirmed that Lewis Hamilton, among other high-profile individuals, has expressed interest in purchasing a MotoGP team following Liberty Media’s acquisition of a significant stake in the motorcycle racing series earlier this year. In April 2024, Liberty Media finalized an 86 percent takeover of MotoGP, while the series’ management retained the remaining 14 percent of ownership. This acquisition builds on Liberty Media’s successful history with Formula 1, which they purchased in 2017 for approximately £3.5 billion (around $4.6 billion).

Since taking the helm of Formula 1, Liberty Media has dramatically transformed the sport, elevating it into one of the most popular and lucrative sporting events worldwide. Their strategies have not only increased the visibility of the series but also turned drivers and team principals into internationally recognized figures. Consequently, the financial landscape of F1 has changed, with all ten teams experiencing notable increases in their valuations, reflecting the heightened interest and engagement from fans globally.

Given this backdrop, the acquisition of MotoGP has attracted attention from various potential investors looking to enter the racing world. Maffei discussed the opportunities for growth within MotoGP, particularly in the United States, where the series currently holds only one race in Austin, Texas. He noted that the revenues generated from this event are relatively modest, hinting at a significant untapped potential for expansion. “I think there’s an opportunity to improve that,” Maffei remarked, emphasizing the possibility of adding a second MotoGP race in the U.S., which could help increase the championship’s profile and revenue streams.

Maffei also hinted at the similarities between MotoGP and Formula 1, suggesting that they could replicate the successful growth strategies applied to F1 within the motorcycle racing series. Following the announcement of Liberty Media’s acquisition of MotoGP, there was an immediate surge of interest from various parties expressing their desire to buy teams, including renowned figures such as Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton’s interest in investing in MotoGP is particularly noteworthy given his established presence in the U.S. sports landscape. He owns a property in the United States and has a stake in the Denver Broncos, a prominent NFL franchise. This crossover appeal could enhance MotoGP’s visibility and attract a new fan base, similar to the successful expansion of Formula 1 into the American market, where new races have been introduced in Miami and Las Vegas since Liberty Media took control.

In discussing the allure of MotoGP, Maffei described it as “an unbelievably exciting product.” He highlighted the thrilling nature of motorcycle racing, noting that competitors can reach speeds of up to 220 miles per hour while riding mere inches apart. The overtaking maneuvers in MotoGP, he pointed out, are incredibly impressive and contribute to the sport’s excitement. This high-speed, high-stakes environment is likely to resonate with Hamilton, whose own racing career has been marked by intense competition and exceptional performances.

In summary, Liberty Media’s acquisition of MotoGP has sparked interest from several influential figures, including Lewis Hamilton, looking to invest in the series. Maffei’s vision for expanding MotoGP in the U.S. echoes the successful strategies implemented in Formula 1, with an emphasis on increasing race events and enhancing revenue streams. The combination of Hamilton’s potential involvement and the promise of a more robust presence in the U.S. marks an exciting phase for MotoGP as it seeks to replicate the success experienced by Formula 1 under Liberty Media’s stewardship. With the right investments and strategic initiatives, MotoGP could become a significant player in the American motorsport landscape, capturing the attention of fans and investors alike.