BRUSSELS, Dec 19 (Reuters) - The European Commission

opened an in-depth investigation into the proposed acquisition

of Dorna Sports by Liberty Media ( LLYVB ), the EU said in a

statement on Thursday.

It noted that Liberty owns the exclusive commercial rights

for the FIA Formula One World Championship, while Dorna Sports

holds exclusive commercial rights for the FIM World Championship

Grand Prix and other motorcycle racing championships.

"The Commission's preliminary investigation indicates that

the transaction may reduce competition between Liberty Media ( LLYVB ) and

Dorna Sports in the licensing of broadcasting rights for

motorsports content", the EU said.