Well surprise surprise, Bernie! One of the predicted consequences of the deal with Sky to put half the Formula 1 races behind a Sky paywall was that viewer numbers would significantly and noticeably go down.
That has now had financial consequences too. It appears that sponsors and advertisers have noticed this decline in viewers as well and that, in turn, could lead to a reduced income for Formula One Management and Formula One Administration. In other words, Bernie Ecclestone would be hit where it hurts (in his wallet) and hence his airing of the plan to supply free F1 Sky boxes to UK households:
The idea would make F1 more accessible, but it would also require a large outlay from Sky to make the boxes available, and they would most probably try to negotiate a reduced rate for the F1 rights should the deal go ahead. However, it would unquestionably increase the viewing figures, and Sky's extensive programming on their dedicated channel would also benefit. Having secured the rights though, Sky may be reluctant to negotiate such a deal until their contract expires. Ecclestone's comments also suggest that he may be open to the entire season returning to a free-to-air channel in the near future.
http://www.pitpass.com/48862-Ecclest...ee-Sky-F1-plan
My own view is that this plan is misplaced although it is good to see that Ecclestone has realised the damage that has been caused to Formula 1 by going behind a Sky paywall. Perhaps showing the race in full on Sky's free to air Pick TV or Challenge the moment the trophy presentation is over would help things as it would still ensure that Sky F1 subscribers get to see the race live.
That has now had financial consequences too. It appears that sponsors and advertisers have noticed this decline in viewers as well and that, in turn, could lead to a reduced income for Formula One Management and Formula One Administration. In other words, Bernie Ecclestone would be hit where it hurts (in his wallet) and hence his airing of the plan to supply free F1 Sky boxes to UK households:
The idea would make F1 more accessible, but it would also require a large outlay from Sky to make the boxes available, and they would most probably try to negotiate a reduced rate for the F1 rights should the deal go ahead. However, it would unquestionably increase the viewing figures, and Sky's extensive programming on their dedicated channel would also benefit. Having secured the rights though, Sky may be reluctant to negotiate such a deal until their contract expires. Ecclestone's comments also suggest that he may be open to the entire season returning to a free-to-air channel in the near future.
http://www.pitpass.com/48862-Ecclest...ee-Sky-F1-plan
My own view is that this plan is misplaced although it is good to see that Ecclestone has realised the damage that has been caused to Formula 1 by going behind a Sky paywall. Perhaps showing the race in full on Sky's free to air Pick TV or Challenge the moment the trophy presentation is over would help things as it would still ensure that Sky F1 subscribers get to see the race live.



