By Jonathan Easton
Sky Sports has announced an extended rights partnership with Formula 1.
The broadcaster will serve as the F1’s exclusive rights holder in the UK until 2029, and until 2027 in Germany and Italy. This extends a partnership first established in 2012 when Sky Sports first acquired the F1 rights.
As part of this deal, Formula 2, Formula 3 and Porsche Super Cup will also continue to be shown on Sky Sports F1, while Sky’s audio commentary will be available in over 80 markets. All home nation races will be broadcast simultaneously on FTA, hinting at the possible return of a Grand Prix in Germany.
Sky said that average viewership for the 2022 season is 1.7 million, up 60 per cent since the UK exclusive deal began in 2019. Average viewership this season in Italy is at 1.5 million (up 20%), while Germany’s audience has increased by almost a quarter this season.
President and CEO at Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali said: “We are incredibly proud of our long-term partnership with Sky, and we are delighted to announce that we will continue working together until 2029, a very important commitment from Sky. Since the beginning of our relationship in 2012 we have both strived to bring the excitement, emotion, and drama of Formula 1 to our traditional fans while engaging new and more diverse audiences.
“Formula 1 has seen huge growth in recent years, and I can’t think of a better partner to continue to reach our fans with dedicated, expert and in-depth coverage. Sky not only brings fans live coverage but a range of behind-the-scenes access and content that brings F1 to life. We are hugely excited about the future of the partnership and the journey of Formula 1.”
Executive Vice President & CEO, Sky UK & Europe, Stephen van Rooyen said: Formula 1 continues to break records on Sky, with millions more watching than ever before across our markets, driven by new younger and female fans which is fantastic for the sport. More than 80 countries will continue to enjoy our world class analysis and content of one of the most exhilarating sports in the world.”
