MotoGP’s New Era: Liberty Media and the Future of Racing
The 2026 MotoGP season is already shaping up to be a pivotal year, not just for the racing itself, but for the sport’s overall trajectory. With Liberty Media now firmly in control, following their acquisition of Dorna Sports in July 2025, the series is poised for significant changes. The recent confirmation of Fox Sports continuing as the U.S. Media rights holder signals a commitment to building a stronger foothold in the American market.
Liberty Media’s Vision for MotoGP
Liberty Media’s track record with Formula 1 provides a glimpse into their potential plans for MotoGP. When Liberty acquired F1 in 2016, the series was already established, but it lacked the global reach and engagement it enjoys today. MotoGP, whereas a thrilling sport, currently operates on a smaller scale, with viewership often in the five or six figures, compared to F1’s mid-six-figure numbers at the time of its acquisition. Liberty’s strategy appears to be focused on growth, particularly in key markets like the United States.
The decision to retain Fox Sports for U.S. Broadcasting is a strategic move. It provides stability and a known platform as Liberty Media begins its first full season overseeing the series. Previously, MotoGP’s U.S. Broadcasting rights shifted between Warner Bros. Discovery (2024) and NBC Sports (2023), indicating a search for the right long-term partner.
Expanding MotoGP’s Reach: The U.S. Market
The U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, will be a key event in 2026, broadcast on the main Fox channel. However, with only one race currently held in the U.S. (as of June 2025), expanding the American presence is crucial. Liberty Media will likely explore opportunities to add more races to the U.S. Calendar, mirroring their success with F1’s expansion to Miami and Las Vegas.
DAZN and the Future of Broadcast
For fans in Spain, access to MotoGP remains through DAZN, which holds the broadcasting rights for the entire World Championship. DAZN’s recent price reductions for its ‘Plan Motor’ package, offering access to both MotoGP and Formula 1 for €9.99 per month, demonstrates a commitment to affordability and accessibility. Viewers as well have the option of the official MotoGP VideoPass, providing access to races with English commentary and additional content for €139.99 for the entire season.
The Impact of the Dorna to MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group Rebrand
Liberty Media’s renaming of Dorna Sports to MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group signifies a shift in focus towards building a broader entertainment experience around the racing. This suggests potential investments in content creation, fan engagement initiatives, and digital platforms, similar to the strategies employed with Formula 1.
Potential Challenges and Opportunities
The regulatory hurdles faced during the acquisition process, highlighted by the EU’s antitrust concerns, demonstrate the scrutiny Liberty Media will face as it seeks to integrate MotoGP with its existing Formula 1 portfolio. Balancing competition in the broadcasting and streaming markets will be a key challenge.
Despite these challenges, the opportunities are significant. Liberty Media’s expertise in sports marketing, media rights negotiation, and fan engagement could unlock substantial growth for MotoGP, attracting new audiences and sponsors.
Race Schedule and Viewing Information
The 2026 season kicks off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand this weekend. Here’s a breakdown of the viewing times for the upcoming U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (Austin) for Spanish audiences:
- FP1 (Free Practice 1): 16:45 (Spain)
- Practice: 21:00 (Spain)
Similar times apply for viewers in Latin America, with adjustments for local time zones:
- Mexico: FP1 – 09:45, Practice – 14:00
- Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Panama: FP1 – 10:45, Practice – 15:00
- Venezuela & Bolivia: FP1 – 11:45, Practice – 16:00
- Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay & Chile: FP1 – 12:45, Practice – 17:00
Rider Watch: Maverick Viñales
All riders are expected to participate in the U.S. Grand Prix, however, fans will be watching Maverick Viñales closely. He experienced discomfort in his left shoulder during the Brazilian Grand Prix, a lingering issue from a 2025 injury. He will employ the free practice sessions to assess his condition and determine whether he can continue racing.
FAQ
- Who owns MotoGP now? Liberty Media Corporation completed its acquisition of Dorna Sports in July 2025.
- Where can I watch MotoGP in Spain? MotoGP can be watched on DAZN and through the DAZN MotoGP channel on Movistar + and Orange TV.
- What is the VideoPass? The VideoPass is MotoGP’s official streaming platform, offering races with English commentary and additional content.
- Will there be more races in the U.S.? Liberty Media is likely to explore opportunities to expand the U.S. Presence of MotoGP.
Stay tuned to Motorsport.com for the latest updates and insights from the track.
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