Kimi’s talent and Leclerc’s hopes: Formula One is a popular product and Sky Sport has anticipated the moves for the Circus’ TV rights until 2032
The global climb of Kimi Antonelli and the eternal pursuit of Ferraribut not only. Formula One is a product that pushes and Sky Sport has brought forward moves to secure the Circus’ broadcasting rights until 2032. The announcement was made at the same time as the extension of the partnership between Sky and Formula One was made official in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
The Italian agreement is valid until 2032 and also extends to Formula 2, Formula 3, Porsche Supercup and F1 Academy. An important coup now that Kimi Antonelli’s season opens and, after a year of testing aboard the Mercedes, he is already racing to win a World title which would be historic for Italian motorsport. In short, as in tennis, Italy finds itself at the center of the scene not only due to the traditional presence of Ferrari which in turn is chasing a world championship absent from Maranello since 2007 as far as drivers are concerned. Until 2032, Formula One will also be visible in streaming on NOW.
The Antonelli effect is also being seen in the ratings recorded in the first four race weekends and despite the cancellation of the grand prix in the Middle East due to the geopolitical situation. Audiences on the Sky Sport and Now platforms grew by 25% and Antonelli’s success in Shanghai, China, his first career victory, attracted 1.2 million viewers live and 1.4 million in the free-to-air broadcast on TV8.
As Andrea DuilioCEO of Sky Italia: “We are very satisfied with this new agreement, which confirms the solidity of our multi-year partnership with Formula 1, in Italy synonymous with unique tradition and passion. We will continue to make the most of it, as only Sky can do, offering great challenges for many years to come, told with the editorial and technological quality that distinguishes us to make Italian fans experience all the emotions of the track.”
Stefano Domenicalipresident of Formula 1: “Sky has been a dedicated, trusted and passionate partner since the beginning of our partnership many years ago. Their world-leading approach to live broadcasts, content creation and behind-the-scenes analysis, led by a group of truly extraordinary broadcast talent, has made the difference in continuing to grow our sport in the UK, Ireland and Italy, and I am delighted that our partnership will continue into the next decade. I want to thank Dana and the entire team at Sky for their determination to conclude this agreement and in continuing to bring the excitement of Formula 1 to our fans.”
