Sepang CEO Outlines Expectations for Liberty Media MotoGP Era

MotoGP, Sportrik Media – Sepang International Circuit believes the new era of MotoGP under Liberty Media ownership must focus on bringing the championship closer to fans, following the American company’s acquisition of a controlling stake in rights holder Dorna Sports.

Although day to day managemet of MotoGP remains under the control of the Carmelo Ezpeleta family, Liberty now has significant influence over the series’ strategic and commercial direction, as it has demonstrated with Formula 1. For circuit promoters, this shift represents an opportunity to enhance event appeal and improve the financial sustainability of hosting a grand prix.

As one of MotoGP’s longest standing venues since 1999, Sepang is currently in a critical phase of contract negotiations with Dorna for 2027 and beyond. Sepang CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif believes the future growth of MotoGP requires a stronger collective effort from promoters, teams and the championship itself to connect with a broader audience.

“I think there are many things that can be improved. It starts with us as promoters, but Dorna, the teams and the riders also need to play a bigger role in reaching younger generations,” Shafriman said, adding that MotoGP already has a strong product but must offer richer fan experiences.

Beyond driving attendance at the circuit, MotoGP also needs to reach fans who cannot attend races in person. The season launch event in Kuala Lumpur is one example of how MotoGP is trying to connect with supporters outside the track, an approach Shafriman believes should be expanded under Liberty’s guidance.

He also supports Liberty’s vision of turning each race weekend into a broader entertainment experience, arguing that concerts, fan activations and off track activities can help attract casual audiences and increase the commercial value of MotoGP events.

Alongside MotoGP, Sepang is pursuing a long term strategy to develop the circuit into a wider destination. With large areas of available land, the circuit aims to attract investors to build hotels, retail and other attractions, creating an ecosystem that combines motorsport and entertainment for visitors at https://sportrik.com/en.