In a significant development indicating a deeper involvement in motorsports, Liberty Media, the owner of Formula One (F1), has revealed the purchase of Dorna Sports, the entity that controls the prestigious MotoGP World Championship. This transaction, valued at an impressive $4.5 billion, marks Liberty Media’s assumption of control over the motorcycle racing series from Bridgepoint, a private equity firm, and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board.

Through this deal, Liberty Media secures an 86% stake in MotoGP, while the existing management of MotoGP retains a 14% interest. Established in 1949, MotoGP is a premier motorcycle racing championship known for its exhilarating races held in 17 countries, with a total of 21 races scheduled for this year.

Greg Maffei, the CEO of Liberty Media, has expressed confidence in the acquisition, underscoring MotoGP’s substantial potential for growth. Maffei has emphasized the company’s dedication to enhancing the sport for fans, teams, commercial partners, and shareholders.

The acquisition of Dorna Sports, headquartered in Madrid, further cements Liberty Media’s position in the motorsports sector. Since taking ownership, Formula 1 has experienced significant expansions, such as the addition of new races and initiatives aimed at engaging fans through various media channels.

Notably, Formula 1 has broadened its media footprint with projects like the Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” produced by Box to Box Films, and an increased emphasis on social media interaction. With the acquisition of MotoGP, Liberty Media aims to leverage the global appeal and excitement surrounding motorsports, promising an exciting future for racing enthusiasts worldwide.

In a historic move, the NFL has ushered in a new era of kickoff rules, with an overwhelming majority of 29 team owners voting in favor of a groundbreaking change for a one-year experimental period.

New Kickoff Rules

• This fresh rule now dictates that the kicker from the kicking team will launch their powerful kick from the 35-yard line, while the rest of the team strategically positions themselves 25 yards downfield at the opponent’s 40-yard line. This innovative setup sets the stage for a thrilling showdown between nine players from the opposing team and the ten players on the kicking team.
• Additionally, a designated landing zone has been established between the end zone and the 20-yard line. Any kicks that land within this area must be promptly returned, giving the opposing team the chance to position two skilled ball returners in this zone.
• Throughout the game, all players on the field must remain still until the ball is caught by a returner or touches the ground gracefully, with the exception of the kicker and the two designated ball returners.

The NFL’s groundbreaking kickoff rule changes promise an exciting, strategic shift in gameplay for the upcoming season.

Austria’s Baumgartner Sets Record with Lightning-Fast Goal

In a jaw-dropping display of skill and speed, Christoph Baumgartner of Austria etched his name into football history by scoring the fastest goal ever recorded in international football. During Austria’s friendly match against Slovakia, Baumgartner wasted no time, finding the back of the net just six seconds after kick-off.

Baumgartner’s lightning-quick goal saw him darting from the centre circle, maneuvering past three opponents, and unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance as the ball nestled into the bottom corner.

The 24-year-old’s remarkable feat shattered the previous record held by Lukas Podolski, who took seven seconds to score for Germany against Ecuador in 2013.

Reflecting on his incredible achievement, Baumgartner expressed his delight, stating, “Of course it’s really cool, I’m very happy. The fact that I hit it like that… it’s of course sensational.”

Baumgartner’s extraordinary goal not only secured Austria’s victory but also captivated football fans worldwide, highlighting the breathtaking moments that make the sport truly unforgettable.