The deal means Sky Deutschland will carry motorsport’s most high-profile championship for a 16th consecutive season, with the promise of airing all of the action, including the three practice sessions, qualifying and the final race, without the interruptions of adverts.
The agreement also means German viewers will be able to watch home favourite Sebastian Vettel try to defend his world championship title and also follow the fortunes of Vettel’s legendary compatriot Michael Schumacher.
“This is a great Christmas gift for motorsport fans in Germany, Austria and Switzerland,” said Carsten Schmidt, director of the pay-TV platform’s commercial arm. “Only we can guarantee the real Formula One experience to viewers.”
Formula One Group CEO Bernie Ecclestone added: “We are very satisfied to continue with Sky, which has been a long-term partner for us.”
The other two Formula One broadcasters in Germany are Sport1 and RTL. Sport1 airs the first and second qualifying sessions live as well as delayed coverage of the qualifying session and highlights of the race. RTL covers the third practice session on a delayed basis, and qualifying and the Sunday race live.
