NBC secures four-year F1 deal

17/10/2012

Formula One Management has confirmed that NBC will be the exclusive Formula 1 broadcaster in the United States for the next four years.

From 2013 to 2016, NBC Sports group will broadcast all 20 races of the 2013 season, four on NBC and 16 on NBC Sports Network, as well as all practice sessions and qualifying. Along with re-runs and studio discussions this will amount to more than 100 hours of programming each year. The deal was made public over the Korean Grand Prix weekend, Speed, which had broadcast F1 for the last 17 years, dropped without warning.

"NBC and its various media assets have a huge profile throughout the United States and I am obviously delighted to have concluded this agreement," said FOM boss Bernie Ecclestone. "I feel that they will promote Formula 1 to a level not seen before in the United States. I very much look forward to working with NBC. Together, we will endeavour to broaden the scope of Formula 1 coverage available to US viewers incorporating additional digital content in particular that has not been available before."

"We are thrilled to add the top international open-wheel racing series to our already-strong motorsports portfolio," added Jon Miller, President, Programming, NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network. "Formula 1 is a perfect fit for the NBC Sports Group as it provides content across three platforms - broadcast, cable and digital - for nine months a year with more than 100 hours of premier programming annually."

The Canadian Grand Prix, as well as 2013's final three rounds, including the Austin race, will air on NBC, while the remaining 16 rounds will be on NBC Sports Network. All 20 races will be live streamed on NBC Sports Live Extra as well as on mobile and tablet apps.