F1 reduces British access on free-to-air

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)—Only half of the Formula One races will be shown on free-to-air British television under a new rights deal beginning next season with the BBC and Sky Sports.

Under the deal, which will last until 2018, the British Broadcasting Corporation’s free-to-air channels will only show half the races, including the British and Monaco Grands Prix and the season-ending race.

The rest will be accessible through the pay channel Sky Sports, which will show every race, qualifying and practice session live.

This marked a departure to previous F1 protocols which ensured races were available on free-to-air TV.