Throughout history, Formula 1 has shared rounds with some motor racing championships, but never with the premier category of motorcycle racing – MotoGP. Could that happen now that both will be owned by Liberty Media?
Even before the announced acquisition this week, over the past year this scenario has been discussed and considered more than once. However, there has never been any formal announcement beyond ideas – because it will be difficult to materialize.
It is certain that in 2024 there are five tracks that both F1 and MotoGP will visit: Austin, Barcelona, Losail, Silverstone, and Spielberg. And there are others on each calendar that would be suitable for both classes.
However, holding F1 and MotoGP races at the same circuit on the same days is a different kind of logistical challenge – because the more specific requirements for track preparation can be different between cars and motorcycles.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna – the promoter of MotoGP – was asked by the website GPOne.com if a joint F1 and MotoGP GP could be on the table with the entry of Liberty Media. The Spaniard replied:
‘- This is something to think about. It is an idea that Stefano [Domenicali, President and CEO of F1] and I have talked about in the past and it was not possible to materialize because it is complicated, but I will not stop thinking about options like this’.
