Formula One has renewed its media rights deal with Telenet in Belgium until 2027.
Contract:
- Telenet signs three-year extension to existing rights deal for Dutch-speaking coverage
- Every practice and qualifying, Grand Prix and sprint session will be shown live on Play Sports
- Deal also includes coverage of Formula Two, Formula Three and the Porsche Supercup
Context:
While Telenet’s official press release claims this is an exclusive partnership, public service broadcaster RTBF has held the French-speaking rights in Belgium to Formula One for decades. French-language coverage is split between linear channel Tipik and digital channel Auvio, with select races available on La Une.
Telenet is also owned by Liberty Global which, despite the similar name, is not officially connected to Liberty Media, the owner of Formula One. The company separated from Liberty Media in 2005, formed by the merger of the international arm of Liberty Media and UnitedGlobalCom. However, John Malone is chairman of both Liberty Global and Liberty Media.
Coming next:
This deal will continue up to the final year of the Belgian Grand Prix as a full-time member of the Formula One schedule. It is unclear how Telenet’s approach to Formula One media rights will change once the race at Spa-Francorchamps switches to a rotational basis. This year’s event takes place from 25th to 27th July and will see the sprint return to the track.
Go deeper:
- Breaking down F1’s sponsorship portfolio ahead of the 2025 season
- Where is the next new F1 race going to happen?
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