Why the Radio Change: Money for Bernie

[cosworth151]

Now we know the real reason for relaxing the radio regulations: Bernie want to charge us to listen to them.

http://autoweek.com/article/formula-one/f1-boss-bernie-ecclestone-wants-charge-fans-hear-team-radio-transmissions

[Jericoke]

I agree that being able to hear the radio is good for business.  It gives a chance for the drivers' personalities to come out.  I'm sure that one of the reasons Kimi is popular is his 'Leave me alone, I know what I'm doing' comment.

However, I'm not sure that charging for the right to get to see the drivers is the best move for growing the sport.  Perhaps though there's a 'happy medium', where we'll continue to hear snippits on the main broadcast, and pay extra to get the live stream of Rosberg whining about 'the other guy'.

[Alianora La Canta]

This doesn't surprise me, though given how few people are willing to pay for F1 in other forms, I'm not sure Bernie will make much profit from this.

[John S]

However, I'm not sure that charging for the right to get to see the drivers is the best move for growing the sport.  Perhaps though there's a 'happy medium', where we'll continue to hear snippits on the main broadcast, and pay extra to get the live stream of Rosberg whining about 'the other guy'.

Most of the broadcast radio traffic seems to be whining from nearly all the drivers, so I for one can well do without paying for it.