Who Owns Formula 1? Liberty Media Ownership Explained

By Emma Wilson · May 9, 2026

The owner of Formula 1 is Liberty Media Corporation, an American mass media company that acquired the commercial rights and controlling interest in Formula 1 through its subsidiary, Formula One Group, in January 2017.

Overview of Formula 1 Ownership

Formula 1, the pinnacle of international motorsport, is owned and operated by the Liberty Media Corporation. The acquisition marked a strategic shift in the sport’s management, emphasizing global expansion, digital innovation, and fan engagement. Liberty Media completed the purchase of Delta Topco, the parent company of the Formula 1 Group, for approximately $4.6 billion, including debt assumption.

Key Entities Involved

Liberty Media Corporation: Publicly traded company (Nasdaq: LSXMA) that holds majority control.
Formula One Group: Operating entity managing commercial rights, broadcasting, and race promotion.

FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile):

Historical Background of F1 Ownership

Prior to Liberty Media’s acquisition, Formula 1 was under the stewardship of Bernie Ecclestone, who managed the commercial aspects for over four decades. Ecclestone’s era focused on expanding the calendar and negotiating lucrative broadcast deals, but faced criticism for lack of digital innovation and centralized governance.

In 2016, shares were sold by private equity firm CVC Capital Partners, which had gradually accumulated control since the early 2000s. Liberty Media emerged as the final buyer, bringing a new strategic vision centered on long-term growth and modernization.

Corporate Structure of Formula 1

Liberty Media holds ownership through a complex corporate structure designed for financial transparency and operational efficiency.

Ownership Breakdown

Entity	Stake in Formula 1 Group	Year Acquired	Acquisition Cost (USD)
Liberty Media Corporation	100% (via indirect holding)	2017	4.6 billion
CVC Capital Partners	~35.5% (pre-2017)	2000–2006	N/A (acquired in stages)
Bernie Ecclestone	<5%	Pre-2017	N/A
Investment Institute (INAIL)	~8.9%	Pre-2017	N/A

Table data source:1, 2

The data illustrates a consolidation of ownership from fragmented private equity stakes into a single publicly traded entity. Liberty Media’s full control has enabled centralized decision-making, accelerating investments in sustainability, esports, and emerging markets like the United States.

Strategic Direction Under Liberty Media

Since taking over, Liberty Media has prioritized several key initiatives:

Expanding the calendar with new races in the U.S., such as Miami and Las Vegas.
Enhancing digital platforms, including F1 TV and F1 Drive (on-demand video service).
Introducing cost-cap regulations to promote competitive balance.
Leveraging Netflix’s "Drive to Survive" series to boost global popularity, especially among younger audiences.

Financial performance has improved significantly, with revenue growing from $1.5 billion in 2016 to over $2.6 billion in 2023, according to annual reports.

Common Questions About Formula 1 Ownership

Who currently owns Formula 1?

Formula 1 is currently owned by Liberty Media Corporation, an American media conglomerate that acquired full control in 2017.

Is Bernie Ecclestone still involved in Formula 1 ownership?

No, Bernie Ecclestone no longer holds a significant ownership stake or executive role in Formula 1 after Liberty Media’s acquisition.

What is the role of the FIA in Formula 1?

The FIA sets the technical and sporting regulations for Formula 1 and ensures fair competition, but does not own the commercial rights or the series itself.

How much did Liberty Media pay for Formula 1?

Liberty Media paid approximately $4.6 billion to acquire Formula 1, including the assumption of existing debt.

Has Formula 1 become more profitable under Liberty Media?

Yes, under Liberty Media, Formula 1's revenue has grown substantially, exceeding $2.6 billion in 2023, driven by new markets, digital expansion, and sponsorship growth.