MotoGP Secures Two-Year ESPN Broadcasting Rights Deal Starting in 2027
The agreement aims to stabilize U.S. coverage and expand reach via Disney+ integration.
1Strategic Broadcasting Shift
MotoGP has finalized a two-year agreement with ESPN, granting the network exclusive broadcasting rights for the United States and Latin America starting in 2027. This move aims to establish a permanent home for the series after years of fragmented contracts across various platforms, including NBC, TNT Sports, and Fox.
2Digital Integration Strategy
A core component of this deal involves streaming accessibility, as race content will be available on Disney+. This integration reflects a broader shift in the media landscape, ensuring that MotoGP reaches modern audiences who prefer digital platforms over traditional linear television, while maintaining live or same-day coverage for every round.
3Ending Broadcast Uncertainty
U.S. fans have faced significant instability regarding where to watch races, with coverage frequently jumping between channels and platforms. Previous arrangements, such as the 2025 deal with Fox, often resulted in races airing on secondary channels like Fox Business, leaving viewers struggling to find consistent, live, and reliable broadcast schedules.
4Liberty Media's Growth Vision
Liberty Media, which acquired MotoGP in 2024 at a valuation of 4.5 billion dollars, views the U.S. market as a primary growth target. By leveraging ESPN's extensive reach, the ownership group intends to replicate the successful brand expansion strategy they previously applied to Formula 1 within the American sporting market.
5Historical Regional Relationship
The partnership builds upon a long-standing connection between the two entities, as ESPN has held MotoGP rights in Latin America for nearly 25 years. Freddy Rolón, head of global sports talent at ESPN, noted that this agreement demonstrates how regional relationships can evolve into broader, global portfolio collaborations for the broadcaster.
6Leadership Perspectives
Deputy CEO Carlos Ezpeleta emphasized that the deal serves as a milestone for growth across the Americas. He stated that ESPN’s position as a leading sports broadcaster makes it an ideal platform to introduce the sport to new audiences while continuing to serve the existing, passionate fanbase of the motorcycle championship.
7Market Positioning Comparison
While Liberty Media owns both MotoGP and Formula 1, their broadcasting paths differ significantly in the U.S. market. Formula 1 recently moved its rights to Apple TV, whereas MotoGP is doubling down on traditional sports media infrastructure through ESPN to build a more stable and accessible foundation for its American viewers.
8Future Growth Expectations
The transition to a unified broadcasting home is expected to simplify the viewing experience for American fans. By consolidating rights under one major media brand, MotoGP aims to increase its visibility and engagement, ultimately hoping to mirror the commercial success and cultural penetration that the series has achieved in other regions.
Original article: The Race — MotoGP Secures Two-Year ESPN Broadcasting Rights Deal Starting in 2027