LONDON (Reuters) - John Malone's Liberty Global and Discovery Communications (NASDAQ:DISCA), who have been linked in the past with Formula One, have become shareholders in the new Formula E electric series.
Formula E said in a statement that the two companies had secured minority investments.
No figures were given but the Hollywood Reporter indicated the combined investment was approximately $55 million for a one third stake.
"It is a significant step forward for Formula E to receive the backing of two major global media companies when we are barely halfway through our first season," said Formula E chief executive Alejandro Agag.
"The experience and knowhow they bring will provide a significant boost to Formula E."
Reports last year suggested Liberty Global and Discovery Communications were interested in buying a combined 49 percent stake in Formula One from rights holders CVC and Lehman Brothers.
Formula E is holding its fifth round of the season in Miami this weekend.