Formula One and pay-TV network Sky New Zealand have renewed their broadcast rights partnership for another three years.
Contract:
- Sky will continue to deliver every practice, qualifying and race session live on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now from 2026
- Australian Grand Prix will be available on free-to-air (FTA) platforms
- Highlights of all other Formula One races will also be available FTA in New Zealand
Context:
Sky has strengthened its commitment to Formula One in New Zealand, extending its rights deal after first securing them in 2023. The move comes as local interest in the sport continues to grow, fuelled by the rise of home-grown talent Liam Lawson.
While the Kiwi driver started the season poorly with Red Bull and was ultimately dropped to the secondary Racing Bulls outfit after only two races, he has since managed to post stronger performances this year.
Reflecting that surge in interest, more than 1.1 million viewers have tuned in via Sky Sport and FTA on Sky Open, while nearly 470,000 viewers have watched on digital platforms Sky Sport Now and Sky Go. The Japanese Grand Prix, boosted by its favourable time zone with New Zealand, delivered the highest engagement of the season so far.
This latest deal builds on Sky New Zealand’s wider motorsport portfolio, which already includes IndyCar and the World Superbike Championship. It also follows the broadcaster’s four-year media rights extension with the Supercars Championship, reinforcing Sky’s position as the home of motorsport in New Zealand.
Comment:
“Formula One has captured the hearts of New Zealanders like never before,” said Adam Crothers, head of content partnerships at Sky.
“The passion, drama, and sheer speed of the sport make it a standout in our lineup. With rising stars like Liam Lawson inspiring a new generation of fans, we’re proud to be bringing world-class motorsport to Kiwi screens — live, loud, and at full throttle.”
Ian Holmes, chief media rights and broadcasting officer at Formula One, added: “Formula One is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Sky New Zealand. With the advent of Liam Lawson, we continue to see a surge in Kiwi supporters who are tuning in to back their hometown hero.
“Together, Formula One and Sky will provide world-class programming and coverage across every race weekend, to ensure fans never miss a moment of the action.”
Coming next:
The broadcast rights extension was announced ahead of this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which takes place from 19th to 21st September.
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