On June 23, 2025, a landmark decision saw the European Commission approve Liberty Media’s €4.2-billion acquisition of an 84% stake in Dorna Sports, MotoGP’s commercial rights holder. This deal, set to close by July 3, 2025, positions Liberty Media—known for revitalizing Formula 1 since 2017—to potentially transform MotoGP, aiming to boost its global reach across its 22-race calendar.

For Filipino fans worldwide, this brings both opportunities and some challenges.

The concept of a MotoGP equivalent to Formula 1’s Drive to Survive could deepen fan connection by spotlighting riders, fostering local watch parties like Motosports Live Viewing Community here in Manila.

Ideally, this presents a unique chance to bridge the gap between F1 and MotoGP fan bases. While these two premier motorsports have distinct appeals—four wheels versus two, and differing race dynamics—Liberty’s track record with F1 suggests a strong potential for making a more interconnected global motorsport community.

Liberty Media’s success with Formula 1’s digital platforms could significantly enhance MotoGP’s streaming and social media presence, making races and highlights more accessible to Filipino fans who heavily rely on online platforms. This improved digital engagement aligns perfectly with the Philippines’ popular streaming culture.

However, it needs to balance the real concern: It might prioritize manufactured drama over the sport’s authentic racing spirit, similar to Formula 1’s trajectory. The challenge for Liberty Media will be to grow MotoGP’s audience without losing the genuine thrill at its core.

The accompanying criticism points to a growing emphasis on creating sensationalized content, sometimes at the expense of genuine sporting integrity.

The purity of competition over the value of entertainment. While it would bring a lot of revenue from promotion, theatrics might not sit well with original, die-hard MotoGP fans that are deeply connected to sport authenticity.

Something has got to give.