Chase Carey, a director at Liberty Media, is of the opinion that simply imitating Netflix’s Formula 1 documentary series, Drive to Survive, will not be the solution for MotoGP to achieve extensive recognition.
Liberty acquired F1 back in January 2017, with one of its significant milestones being the debut of the Netflix show’s initial season two years later, which played a key role in elevating the popularity of the world championship.
In July 2025, Liberty took ownership of 84% of Dorna Sports, now referred to as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group. The organization is aiming to diversify motorcycle grands prix, noting that 11 of the top 12 riders in the 2026 MotoGP championship hail from Spain or Italy, while also working to enhance its footprint in the United States.
“Certainly, there are aspects of what teams in MotoGP need to implement that will echo similarities to Formula 1,” Carey mentioned during a conference at the Autosport Business Exchange in New York. “Undoubtedly, it is a global franchise.
“In some respects, MotoGP is even more intense. When you observe these competitors, it appears as though they are lying flat on the road while maneuvering their bikes around. Yet, it remains a sport with its distinct traits. Thus, a one-size-fits-all approach cannot be applied here.”
“We are in the early stages. They are developing strategies and exploring avenues to cultivate the sport in a manner similar to our efforts with Formula 1.”
The series, Drive to Survive, is recognized for bringing Formula 1 to an entirely new demographic, significantly aided by the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, which began shortly after the premier of its second season.
“Drive to Survive stands out as the most evident instance,” Carey conceded. “We understood the importance of showcasing the personalities that embody the sport, providing them with a more significant platform and fostering fan engagement.
“In today’s digital landscape, everything operates round the clock. The ultimate experience remains the live race; however, people are connecting with the race itself, tracking the race details, clips from the race, and behind-the-scenes content continuously.
“They are engaged with it 24/7. Therefore, we must persist in locating ways to satisfy that hunger and desire for connection with the sport, offering mediums that allow fans to engage with the sport in that manner.”
Liz Claman and Chase Carey
Photo by: Bryan Bedder / Getty Images
“Currently, the US stands as the largest YouTube market for our sport. This indicates the connection we’re establishing through these platforms.
“Drive to Survive has emerged as a central aspect of our digital initiatives. Numerous efforts are ongoing in the digital sphere, but this series is undoubtedly at the forefront. It holds immense importance and value for us.”
Numerous competitions, both within motorsport and beyond, have tried to replicate this achievement, yet Carey believes that copying it wouldn’t suit MotoGP.
“You ought to seek opportunities,” the American emphasized. “In reality, everyone observed Drive to Survive, and then they attempted to mimic it. Golf tried their own version with Full Swing, tennis made an attempt with Break Point—everyone did.
“Typically, one cannot simply replicate another’s success. This is a lesson we learned at Fox with American Idol. American Idol managed to capture widespread fascination, and there were subsequent shows that found success, yet there was only one American Idol that achieved that level of acclaim.
“In general, one cannot merely set out to replicate an idea. It’s crucial to discover opportunities, leverage personalities, utilize digital platforms, and foster great partnerships.
“A collaborator in Formula 1 such as Apple has introduced an entirely fresh perspective on how to broadcast and engage with fans. As such, the key is to explore what can be done with that opportunity and how to cultivate it.
“They must carve their own course and identify their unique opportunities. The Formula 1 film was an excellent opportunity for that, but simply creating a MotoGP film may not be the most suitable approach.
“However, there are alternative prospects—there will always be other avenues. It’s likely not about repeating past successes but finding those new opportunities and discovering intriguing personalities.”
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– The Autosport.com Team
