Liberty Media, the parent company of Formula 1's commercial rights, has clarified that it will not be simply merging MotoGP with Formula 1, creating a premier super-series.
Following the Easter break, it was confirmed by Liberty that it has indeed taken control of MotoGP, the premier class of motorcycle racing, through a transaction reportedly surpassing the 4 billion dollar mark.
Speculation had been mounting about the potential for Liberty to organise combined race weekends for F1 and MotoGP. Nevertheless, Liberty has announced that MotoGP will continue to operate "independently" from its base in Madrid, with Carmelo Ezpeleta, its longstanding leader, remaining in charge.
In discussions with the press, Maffei stated, "The only thing we are not going to do is run MotoGP and Formula 1 together, both for regulatory issues and for the structure of our agreement with F1 partners and teams."
He emphasized that aligning MotoGP's success with that of F1 is a primary objective.
"I'd like to think that we have an idea of how the media landscape is evolving, and how to make the product attractive to partners outside of the traditional base of Italy, Spain and France," Maffei elaborated.
"But as MotoGP is in a better position than F1 was when Liberty intervened, there won't be as many changes.
"The existing format, with the longest race being 45 minutes, is already perfect for the young American public, both male and female. As soon as it gains some resonance, they will love this sport.
"MotoGP and F1 will remain separate," Maffei firmly added.
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