Change at the head of Liberty Media: Derek Chang, a seasoned manager with experience in the NBA and NFL, takes the reins of the Formula 1 ownership group. What will be the consequences for the premier discipline of motorsport? Analysis.
The world of Formula 1 is experiencing a major change at the start of 2025. Liberty Media, the American group that has owned the premier motorsport discipline since 2016, has just appointed a new CEO in the person of Derek Chang. This 52-year-old American, who has served as director at Liberty since 2021, has solid experience in the world of sports business and media.
A seasoned leader with experience in the NBA and NFL
Derek Chang is no stranger to American sports. From 2018 to 2020, he served as director of the NBA in China, a strategic market for the basketball league. Previously, he worked for EverPass Media, a partner company of the NFL, the American football league. High-flying experiences which visibly appealed to the decision-makers at Liberty Media.
With this appointment, it is therefore a man experienced in the mysteries of sport business and the Asian market who takes control of F1. According to sources close to the matter, Liberty Media is counting on Derek Chang to further develop the discipline’s revenues, in particular through new partnerships in fast-growing countries such as China and India.
Domenicali reinforced, more freedom to develop F1
The arrival of Derek Chang should not, however, shake up the operational organization chart of F1. Stefano Domenicali, the big boss of the discipline since 2021, retains his position. The Italian will now report to a board of directors chaired by Chang from February 1. According to rumors from the paddock, this new organization could offer more latitude to Domenicali to carry out his development projects.
Derek will bring invaluable perspective and expertise as we look to grow our fan base and take Formula 1 to the next level.
said Greg Maffei, the outgoing CEO of Liberty Media.
Soon MotoGP in the fold of Liberty Media
The change of leadership at Liberty Media comes as the group is about to get its hands on another major motorsport discipline: MotoGP. A takeover which, according to analysts, could generate interesting synergies, particularly in terms of TV production costs and commercial strength with advertisers.
Under the leadership of its new boss Derek Chang, Liberty Media seems more determined than ever to establish its position as a key player in the world of global motorsport. And this, by leveraging recognized expertise in revenue maximization and international development. See you in the coming months to measure the effects on Formula 1 and, perhaps, MotoGP.
