F1 and MotoGP will exchange technology, not audiences, according to the CEO of F1.

      The audience of Formula 1 is nearly 50 percent female and predominantly young.

      Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that Liberty Media’s acquisition of MotoGP will not create competition between the two championships, but rather enable both to benefit from shared technology and expertise. Speaking to Corriere della Sera from Spa-Francorchamps, Domenicali shed light on Liberty’s plans following the European Commission's approval of its 4.2 billion euro purchase of Dorna Sports earlier this month.

      “Recently, I met in Madrid with Dorna shareholders and managers to discuss the matters that need addressing,” he mentioned. “The two business units will remain distinct, as will their respective management teams. However, we will arrange for F1 to provide technological support and expertise, and vice versa.”

      Despite the concerns raised by the EU, regulators did not find any significant risk to competition. Domenicali believes that both entities can flourish independently. “They exist in similar yet complementary spheres; we won't interfere with each other. This applies to both fan engagement and development areas. We have outlined potential synergies.”

      “We plan to initiate work on these at the end of summer, which will further enhance the motorcycle segment and benefit everyone involved. Liberty has made a substantial investment and has clear vision.”

      While F1 continues to grow in the US market, Domenicali mentioned that MotoGP will keep a broader global perspective. “America is significant, but the Far East is vital for two-wheelers,” he acknowledged. “Carmelo Ezpeleta and his son Carlos are considering creating commercial packages and revising the sporting aspects. The races remain quite popular, despite the dominance of a single rider and motorcycle brand.”

      He also rejected the notion that MotoGP would merely imitate F1’s approach, although some similarities are anticipated. “F1’s audience consists of almost 50 percent females and is very youthful," Domenicali stated. "I may not be the best person to grasp the preferences of Generation Z since I don’t use social media, but I do see the direction of communication and engagement strategies. The introduction of Netflix and the recent film has significantly lowered the average age of the audience.”

      That film—F1, featuring Brad Pitt, which has not found favor with some traditionalists—has nonetheless surpassed expectations both commercially and technically. “I was confident the film would be successful in the US,” Domenicali remarked. “However, I was surprised by its box office performance in Europe. Apple has ventured into this area and could become an important collaborator for upcoming projects, but I prefer not to get ahead of myself.”