Sky Sports Lands Exclusive on F1 Races

LONDON: Sky Sports has agreed to a new partnership with Formula One Management, making the channel the exclusive home of F1 in the U.K. and Ireland from 2019 to 2024.

This exclusive coverage includes broadcasts of every Grand Prix. The Formula 1 British Grand Prix, together with highlights of all other races and Qualifying sessions, will be shown on a free-to-air basis.

Additionally, at least two other prime-time live races a season will be offered on the soon-to-be-launched Sky Sports Mix channel, along with other F1 content. For the first time, every race starting with the 2017 Championship will be shown in ultra high definition via Sky Q.

Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of Formula One Group, said: “I am delighted that we will continue to work together. Sky’s commitment to the Sport and standard of coverage is second to none.”

Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said: “This is a brilliant deal that takes Sky’s partnership with F1 to the next level. Since 2012, we have demonstrated unrivaled commitment to F1, offering fans innovations including a dedicated channel and the very best broadcasting talent. We are delighted that we are strengthening our coverage for viewers even further, with live and exclusive F1 from 2019 and the chance to watch in ultra high definition for the first time from next season. We are pleased to support F1 and look forward to working with them to progress, develop and enhance coverage of the Championship during the agreement.”

Martin Brundle, commentator and analyst for Sky Sports F1, added: “I joined Sky Sports because I wanted to be part of a dedicated F1 channel with a total and long-term commitment to the sport. And we have certainly delivered on that. In a fast-changing media landscape, our coverage will get even better for F1 fans.”