The European Commission has temporarily halted its investigation into Liberty Media’s €3.5 billion bid for Dorna Sports, the company behind MotoGP. This pause is due to the companies’ delay in providing necessary information requested by the Commission.
The investigation, which began in December, is examining whether the acquisition could lead to higher prices for broadcasting rights for motorsports events. Another concern is whether Liberty Media’s largest shareholder, John Malone, might exert significant influence over both Liberty Media and U.S. cable company Liberty Global, potentially causing Liberty Media to restrict access to rival broadcasters in countries like Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands.
The Commission had initially set a June 30 deadline for its decision but has now suspended the “clock” on the investigation. Once the required information is provided, a new deadline will be set. This pause is a standard procedure when parties fail to meet deadlines for submitting crucial data.
Liberty Media’s acquisition of Dorna Sports is part of a larger strategy to expand its portfolio of global sports assets. The deal, valued at €4.2 billion, aims to grow MotoGP’s global presence and fanbase. However, regulatory approvals are necessary for the transaction to proceed.
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