F1 TV Rights For U.S. Up For Bid

[cosworth151]

NBC's highly successful term with the U.S. TV rights for F1 has been extended through the end of next season. The network took over in 2013 and has grown viewership every season. Last season was up by 10.1% over 2014.

The races have had far greater availability than during their previous stint on Fox. Most of us over here in the States couldn't get the races in any format during the Fox years. We still have the same problems with Fox's IMSA & NHRA coverage. (I couldn't find a live feed of most of last week-end's 12 Hours of Sebring anywhere).

Sadly, Fox if thought to be in the bidding for the F1 rights. Hopefully, it will stay right where it is. Now that there is a U.S. team it would be great for the growth of the sport over here.

http://autoweek.com/article/formula-one/race-f1-tv-rights-us-revs-nbc-deal-nears-end-road

[J.Clark]

When NBCSports first announced taking over coverage, I was somewhat skeptical; although, not really happy with FOX's coverage.

Since they took it over, I have nothing but praise for the way they have handled it with regard to live coverage.  I am therefore, quite hopeful that they will get the contract to continue.

[rasfan]

I can only hope that Fox refrains from bidding on F1 TV rights. since their contract with IMSA the available viewing options have been terrible to say the least. Trying to navigate between Fox1, Fox2 and internet options couldn't be more troublesome. If one doesn't receice Fox2 on your cable system, you're out of luck. If your internet supplier isn't registered with IMSA.com you're out of luck...Trying to be an IMSA follower is a challenge.
NBCSN's coverage has been consistently satisfactory and rebroadcasts are generally well placed in case you can't handle some of the early morning broadcasts. I could do without Lee Giffey and would like to see someone else in his spot, but he's better than other options. Let's all vote for NBCSN to prevail.

[Scott]

I havent seen a lot of Fox Sports, but what I have seen tends to be way over-produced, full of gimmicks and too many talking heads, so I am sure NBC is doing a better job.