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MotoGP’s senior leadership has issued a clear caution to the championship’s new owners, warning against the temptation to simply mirror Formula 1’s approach following Liberty Media’s takeover of the series.
MotoGP sporting director Carlos Ezpeleta has spoken openly about the challenges and opportunities that come with Liberty Media becoming the controlling force behind the premier motorcycle racing championship. Liberty Media, which has overseen Formula 1’s rapid commercial growth and global popularity in recent years, officially extended its influence into MotoGP, sparking widespread debate about how much the two series should align.
While Ezpeleta welcomed the investment and long-term vision Liberty Media brings, he stressed that MotoGP must not lose its unique identity by attempting to replicate Formula 1’s model too closely. According to him, MotoGP’s appeal lies in its own traditions, competitive structure, and fan culture, which differ significantly from those of F1.
Ezpeleta explained that although Formula 1’s transformation under Liberty Media is often viewed as a success story—particularly in terms of digital engagement, entertainment-driven storytelling, and commercial expansion—those strategies cannot simply be copied and pasted into MotoGP. He warned that such an approach could risk alienating existing fans and undermining the essence of motorcycle racing.
MotoGP, he noted, is built on closer racing, a different relationship between riders and fans, and a paddock culture that values accessibility and authenticity. Ezpeleta emphasized that these qualities must be preserved even as the championship evolves commercially. In his view, growth should come through innovation that respects MotoGP’s character rather than imitation of another sport.
The sporting director also highlighted structural differences between the two championships. Formula 1 operates with a relatively small grid and highly controlled technical regulations that favor long-term manufacturer investment. MotoGP, on the other hand, thrives on intense competition, frequent overtaking, and a balance that allows independent teams and emerging riders to challenge established names. Ezpeleta argued that copying F1’s governance or promotional strategies without careful adaptation could disrupt this balance.
Another key concern raised was the role of riders. Ezpeleta pointed out that MotoGP athletes are central to the spectacle, often engaging more directly with fans and delivering unpredictable racing on a weekly basis. He warned that over-commercialization or excessive showmanship—elements often associated with modern F1—could dilute the raw sporting drama that defines MotoGP.
Despite these warnings, Ezpeleta made it clear that he is not opposed to learning from Formula 1’s successes. He acknowledged that Liberty Media’s expertise in media rights, global marketing, and fan engagement could help MotoGP reach new audiences, particularly in emerging markets. However, he stressed that any borrowed ideas must be carefully tailored to fit MotoGP’s ecosystem.
Ezpeleta concluded by urging Liberty Media to treat MotoGP as a distinct product rather than a sister series to Formula 1. In his view, the goal should be to strengthen MotoGP on its own terms, enhancing its visibility and financial stability without sacrificing the sport’s soul. As MotoGP enters this new era under shared ownership with F1, his message was clear: evolution is necessary, but imitation could be costly.
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