Lewis Hamilton has expressed excitement at the idea of Formula 1 and MotoGP holding joint race weekends, a possibility made more likely by both championships now sharing ownership under Liberty Media.
Since acquiring F1’s commercial rights in 2017, Liberty Media recently expanded its motorsport portfolio by securing an 86% ownership stake in Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder for MotoGP, in a deal valued at €4.2 billion.
Following the announcement, MotoGP’s Dorna sporting director Carlos Ezpeleta suggested the idea of shared race weekends might be explored.
“We are not ruling it out,” he noted, potentially hinting at a new chapter in motorsport entertainment.
During a media session at the Japanese Grand Prix, seven-time World Champion Hamilton shared his thoughts on the potential for combining F1 and MotoGP events. “I didn’t really think a lot about it, [but] obviously I read the headlines about it,” Hamilton commented.
He praised Liberty Media’s management of Formula 1, noting, “I think Liberty has done an amazing job with Formula 1, obviously the value of the thing [rising since 2017]. So, I think they can do a great job with MotoGP.”
The idea of watching cars and motorcycles race on the same weekend thrilled the F1 veteran. “It’s exciting because I love MotoGP. It would be epic if we can have them on the same weekend,” he said.
Hamilton, a known admirer of MotoGP, even joked about participating in both categories: “Maybe I could do a race in MotoGP and race a Formula 1 car on the same weekend – that would be really cool,” he quipped, though he admitted such a scenario would be “impossible.”
While the potential for joint events seems promising, practical considerations about venue suitability remain a challenge. Only larger circuits like the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, which already accommodate both F1 and MotoGP, would be feasible for such events. The logistical complexities of F1’s many new street circuits could limit the execution of this ambitious idea.
Amidst his enthusiasm for future racing formats, Hamilton also addressed his current priorities and future in Formula 1 amidst a challenging period with Mercedes. When asked if his interests outside F1 were gaining importance, Hamilton clarified that his main concern was Mercedes’ performance. “The ultimate thing that keeps me up at night is, ‘when are we going to be fighting for wins again?’” he explained.
Hamilton outlined his focus on helping his team improve, “What can I do different? What can I do better in the car? How can I improve in qualifying? How can I deliver more for the team? What different set-up things can we take?”
His comments reflect his dedication to not only maintaining, but elevating his and the team’s competitive edge.
