» Spanish fans stuck on pay TV

Spanish Formula 1 fans will have to continue watching the sport through pay TV subscriptions. The Spanish broadcaster Movistar+, the digital TV network owned by Telefónica, has signed a three-year contract extension to continue its exclusive coverage of the sport until the end of 2020.

The new agreement will see Movistar+ offer live broadcasts of all practice sessions along with Saturday qualifying and Sunday’s races. The network has also been awarded “a number of additional digital rights”, allowing Movistar + to produce its own exclusive content for distribution on its digital and social media platforms.

“We are very happy to extend our partnership with Movistar+, which has begun in 2014, for three more years,” Ian Holmes, FOM’s Director of Media Rights, said.

“Spain is one of the most important European markets for Formula 1 and, thanks to this partnership, the Spanish fans will be able to continue to enjoy the spectacle provided by the pinnacle of motor sport 24/7 on a dedicated channel, Movistar F1.”

“Motor sport is a strategic pillar for Movistar+, with its perfectly defined offer and two internationally groundbreaking dedicated channels,” added Alex Martinez Roig, Movistar+ Content Manager.

“We are poised build an ambitious project with Formula 1, with one specific goal in mind – broadening the Formula 1 fan base and meeting its wildest expectations. Most of the fans are tech savvy viewers and the online environment is the niche we want to explore and where we anticipate a major breakthrough. 2018 will be the fifth consecutive year in which Formula 1 will be fully broadcast in Spain by Movistar F1, our dedicated channel. The renewal of the partnership constitutes a further step in our commitment to provide the Spanish viewers with the best possible sports offer.”

FOM’s agreement with Movistar+ is among a number to have been secured, including broadcast deals for Australian, French, German and American fans.

Image via Movistar+