Key takeaways
- Major executive promotion: Carlos Ezpeleta has been appointed Deputy CEO of MotoGP, transitioning from his previous role as Sporting Director.
- Liberty Media backs Ezpeleta family: The strategic move reinforces the leadership of Carmelo and Carlos Ezpeleta following Liberty Media’s acquisition of commercial rights holder Dorna.
- Focus on global expansion: Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang highlighted Ezpeleta’s deep industry knowledge as crucial for expanding the championship’s international reach and commercial footprint.
MotoGP announced on Tuesday (25) a significant change to its executive hierarchy. Carlos Ezpeleta, who previously served as the championship’s Sporting Director, has been appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer. He will work directly alongside his father, Carmelo Ezpeleta, who remains the primary chief executive of the series.
The leadership restructuring comes as Liberty Media strengthens its executive framework following its acquisition of a majority stake in Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of the FIM World Championship.
Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang praised the appointment, citing Ezpeleta’s extensive background in both the sporting and commercial avenues of motorcycle racing.
“MotoGP has built a solid global foundation, and we see a massive opportunity to take the sport to the next level,” Chang said. “Carlos has the experience, vision, and deep understanding of MotoGP to help lead this transformation, and we are excited to support him as he steps into this new role,” he added.
In an official press release, the organization highlighted that Carlos Ezpeleta has played a central role in the championship for over a decade, helping expand its international footprint, enhance commercial offerings, strengthen strategic partnerships, and grow the global fanbase.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, MotoGP CEO, commended his son’s long-standing impact on the sport’s evolution.
“Carlos has played a fundamental role in MotoGP’s growth over many years,” Carmelo emphasized. “His experience spans all areas of our business, and his leadership, vision, and passion for the sport make him the right person to help guide MotoGP into its next chapter,” he assured.
Expressing gratitude for the promotion, Carlos Ezpeleta set his sights on accelerating the series’ global growth.
“It is a great honor to assume this role at such an exciting time for MotoGP,” Carlos stated. “With incredible fans and partners around the world, I am eager to work alongside Liberty Media and the entire MotoGP community to reach new audiences, create new opportunities, and unlock the full potential of the sport,” he concluded.
The management update arrives as the paddock arrives in Alcañiz, where Jorge Martín celebrates his Aragon debut with Aprilia while Marco Bezzecchi downplays a physical setback following his podiums at Silverstone. Additionally, Tech3 team principal Günther Steiner confirmed Pol Espargaró will continue replacing the injured Maverick Viñales at MotorLand, as veteran Jack Miller sees his MotoGP departure nearing after 12 seasons.
MotoGP returns to action from August 28–30 for the Aragon Grand Prix, the 13th round of the 2026 season. GRANDE PRÊMIO provides complete live coverage of all track action. Follow all updates on our news page.
MotoGP 2026: Drivers’ World Championship Standings (Top 5)
| Pos | Driver | Team | Bike | Points |
| 1 | Jorge Martín | Aprilia Racing | Aprilia RS-GP | 240 |
| 2 | Marco Bezzecchi | Aprilia Racing | Aprilia RS-GP | 209 |
| 3 | Ai Ogura | Trackhouse Racing Team | Aprilia RS-GP | 203 |
| 4 | Marc Márquez | Ducati Lenovo Team | Ducati Desmosedici | 200 |
| 5 | Fabio Di Giannantonio | Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team | Ducati Desmosedici | 199 |
MotoGP Aragon GP: Schedule (Global Time Zones)
US (ET)
- Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday, August 28 – 04:45
- Practice (PR): Friday, August 28 – 09:00
- Qualifying (Q1/Q2): Saturday, August 29 – 04:50 / 05:15
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 29 – 09:00
- Grand Prix Race: Sunday, August 30 – 08:00
London (UK – BST / UTC+1)
- Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday, August 28 – 09:45
- Practice (PR): Friday, August 28 – 14:00
- Qualifying (Q1/Q2): Saturday, August 29 – 09:50 / 10:15
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 29 – 14:00
- Grand Prix Race: Sunday, August 30 – 13:00
Spain (CEST / UTC+2)
- Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday, August 28 – 10:45
- Practice (PR): Friday, August 28 – 15:00
- Qualifying (Q1/Q2): Saturday, August 29 – 10:50 / 11:15
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 29 – 15:00
- Grand Prix Race: Sunday, August 30 – 14:00
Thailand (ICT / UTC+7)
- Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday, August 28 – 15:45
- Practice (PR): Friday, August 28 – 20:00
- Qualifying (Q1/Q2): Saturday, August 29 – 15:50 / 16:15
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 29 – 20:00
- Grand Prix Race: Sunday, August 30 – 19:00
Indonesia (WIB / UTC+7)
- Free Practice 1 (FP1): Friday, August 28 – 15:45
- Practice (PR): Friday, August 28 – 20:00
- Qualifying (Q1/Q2): Saturday, August 29 – 15:50 / 16:15
- Sprint Race: Saturday, August 29 – 20:00
- Grand Prix Race: Sunday, August 30 – 19:00
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. What new role will Carlos Ezpeleta assume in MotoGP?
Carlos Ezpeleta has been promoted from Sporting Director to Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Deputy CEO) of MotoGP.
2. Who owns the commercial rights to MotoGP in 2026?
Liberty Media holds the majority stake in Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder for the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
3. Will Carmelo Ezpeleta remain as CEO of MotoGP?
Yes. Carmelo Ezpeleta continues in his role as CEO, with Carlos Ezpeleta assisting him as Deputy CEO.
