Lewis Hamilton Criticises F1 ‘Pay TV’

Reigning world champion, Lewis Hamilton was baffled at Formula 1‘s disappearance from free-to-air television. The Briton is of the opinion that such a much cannot be profitable for the F1 business. His comments come in the wake of UK’s preparation for a 2019 season without free coverage of F1.

The British Grand Prix will be the only race available in 2019 following a deal between Channel 4 and Sky Sports. Sky surrendered a minute part of their stranglehold on F1 rights. Sky’s own deal is expected to last until 2024.

Ever since they bought the rights in 2012, Sky has swept F1 coverage in the UK. Meanwhile, other countries like Italy and Germany have also seen the competition go behind pay-walls.

According to predictions, the UK move could see viewing figures plummet dramatically. All this was inspite of a cheaper deal being offered to F1 fans by Sky.

As it turned out, only 1.9 million people witnessed his fifth world title triumph with Mercedes. All this was in comparison to the 8.9 million viewers who witnessed his maiden triumph. Back then, the sole rights belonged to ITV. Needless to say, the reigning champion was none too pleased with the ‘Pay TV’.

“I didn’t know those numbers. It sounds terrible from a business point of view,” he said.

“I’m not sure why people are switching off. I don’t have the answer to that exactly.”

Upon being informed that F1’s departure from free-to-air TV was a factor, he agreed.

“Yeah, well, that’s definitely not cool”, he mused. “I remember growing up and turning on BBC and watching it all free. It was awesome.

“I don’t currently understand the pay TV situation. It’s not my job to come up with the answers for that.

“But I do understand, because it’s bloody expensive nowadays, with everything you have in your home, all your insurance, all the things that you do end up paying.

“And on top of that you got to pay for TV, and a TV license. It’s just ridiculous.”