Sky launch dedicated F1 channel

Sky will launch its new channel in March 2012 © Sutton Images

Sky Sports will cover Formula One in the UK in 2012 by way of a new dedicated channel: Sky Sports F1 HD.

Sky agreed a deal to broadcast every race from next season back in July, with the move angering British fans used to Formula One being available on free-to-air television. While the BBC will show live coverage of only 10 races as it scales back its coverage, Sky Sports' managing director Barney Francis says that the new channel - to be launched in March - will allow it to cover the sport in its full depth.

"Formula 1 followers are hungry for more and we want to give them the ultimate experience. It's not just every minute of every race but a channel devoted to Formula 1," Francis said. "We can now tell the whole story of the season, from every Grand Prix, from start to finish. Formula 1 will get the full Sky Sports treatment.

"We have big plans for live shows and a rich line-up of Formula 1 programmes; getting to the drivers, exploring the technology and lapping up the drama. With a dedicated channel for Formula 1 we can also give all sports fans the depth and breadth of sports they demand every weekend, right through the year."

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