Anyone hoping for a return to Formula 1’s free-to-air TV program may have been disappointed by a press release from F1 management on Friday (September 30). Premier Class chiefs have negotiated a new long-term deal with Sky’s pay-TV broadcasting group. Accordingly, Sky TV secures rights in Germany and Italy until 2027, while the new deal in Great Britain and Ireland runs until 2029.

It is not yet clear whether Sky will add a few more matches to free-to-air RTL in the meantime, as it has done so far. According to an official F1 announcement, the pay TV broadcaster has acquired the exclusive broadcasting rights for all races. Only the home race should be simulcast on free TV. However, the return of the German Grand Prix to the calendar is currently not in sight, and that could certainly change by 2027.

According to those responsible for Formula 1, the audience has changed significantly in recent years. Ratings keep going up. In most markets, viewers are, on average, younger. As the premier class rolls around, more women are seen now than ever before.

Sky Germany with quota record

The same goes for the German F1 fan community. Sky Deutschland is on course for the most successful season in the pay TV channel’s history this year. Compared to 2021, the range has increased by 21 percent. A new personal record was set at the Saudi Arabian GP with 1.38 million viewers. According to official figures, half of the audience is under the age of 35. 40 percent of new viewers are women.

As before, in addition to the premier class, Sky will also broadcast live supporting series Formula 2, Formula 3 and the Porsche Supercup. F1 boss Stefano Domenicali praises long-time TV partner: “Formula 1 has grown so much in recent years. I can’t imagine a better partner to reach fans with passionate, high-quality and in-depth reporting.”