SEPANG – Formula One owner Liberty Media’s takeover of MotoGP rights holders Dorna will not impact Sepang International Circuit’s (SIC) hosting of the annual MotoGP.
According to SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif, the circuit management is still liaising with Dorna for the MotoGP contract, signed by both parties until 2026.
“I don’t think there will be any clashes from the previously made announcement. Dorna is still the point of reference for this year’s race and we will wait and see if there are any changes.
“Carmelo Ezpeleta is still Dorna CEO and the core management team is still the same.
“If there are changes I believe it will be positive for motorsports,” Azhan told reporters at the circuit’s iftar event yesterday.
On Monday, MotoGP announced that Liberty Media will acquire approximately 86% in stakes from Dorna, its Spain-based owner, valued at €4.2 billion (RM21.4 billion).
The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year, pending regulatory approvals.
Meanwhile, Azhan said that he is looking forward to seeing the benefits of Liberty Media taking over MotoGP.
“We can see how the interest in F1 has elevated to what it is today since Liberty’s takeover. I hope they will bring the same marketing strategies and make things more interesting for the future of MotoGP.
At the same time, Azhan added that for the 25th anniversary of SIC this year, the management is planning to organise a concert featuring a local and international lineup.
“We will make the announcement later as we will also have other activities to supplement the MotoGP race in November.
“We have yet to sit down with Dorna and Petronas to discuss what kind of activities we should have,” Azhan added.
He also said that the ticket sales for this year’s Malaysian GP are doing well.
“Our buy one free one promo launched early last year received an encouraging reception among the fans. Compared to previous years’ sales, last year saw a significant increase in sales,” said Azhan. – April 3, 2024