The Infront agency has acquired Youthstream, the owner of exclusive television, marketing and global promotional rights to the International Motorcycling Federation’s (FIM) MXGP Motocross World Championship until the 2036 season.
The deal also covers other events such as the FIM Motocross of Nations, the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship, the FIM Snowcross World Championship, the European Motocross Championship and the Motocross of European Nations.
Infront confirmed that the management of Youthstream, which is based in Monaco, will remain unchanged under the direction of president Giuseppe Luongo, chief executive David Luongo and chief operating officer Daniele Rizzi.
Infront president and chief executive Philippe Blatter said: “We are very glad to welcome the Youthstream team to the Infront Group. Under the proven management and expertise, the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship has become the premier event of off-road motorsport.
“Following the successful ownership and management of the FIM Superbike World Championship from 2007 to 2012, this acquisition provides us once again with a long-term property ownership in international motorsport further strengthening our comprehensive portfolio. We will collaborate very closely to further optimise fan experience, content offering and ultimately grow the global community in motocross.”
Luongo added: “We have been successfully building this company over more than three decades and are now very much looking forward to continue to further develop our ambitious vision for motocross together with Infront as one of the leading players in global sports business. This agreement comes at the right moment for the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship and allows Youthstream to accelerate its international development. I am sure that the synergies we will generate will be of great benefit for all properties we represent.”
The FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship takes place across 20 race tracks around the world from March through to September/October.