Formula E's stepped up its game as it switches to pay TV
As Formula E enters its tenth season, it's still seen with scepticism by racing fans. But as coverage switches to pay TV, it is now worth watching, says Damien Smith
And ‘influencers’ and famous personalities will brought in for the live broadcasts
Every Formula E season five E-Prix will be shown live on YouTube in 2018/19 in the UK, the championship has announced.
The series has called the stream ‘supplementary coverage’, though its main television deal is still to be announced. Channel 5 had shown the races on its sister channel Spike in 2017/18.
As FE aims to appeal to a younger demographic, popular streamers and ‘influencers’ will host a show at the YouTube Space, London, before the races are shown live for free on the internet – beginning with the opening round in Saudi Arabia on December 15.
Figures such as KSI, who has 20 million subscribers on YouTube, will co-host FE’s shows alongside Laurence McKenna.
Ali Russell, director of media and business development for the championship, said that FE is pushing boundaries.
Updated: Formula E 2018/19 teams and drivers
“Coming together with like-minded companies such as YouTube to provide new ways to watch electric racing is what separates Formula E from other sporting properties and rights-holders,” said Russell.
“Working in tandem with some of the biggest names and influencers allows us to grow our existing audience, which is primarily a younger and more digitally-engaged demographic. This partnership truly fits their needs and viewing habits.”
The project’s integration of influencers is the first of its kind, according to YouTube’s head of sport, Tomos Grace: “Seeing YouTube creators centre stage for such an important sporting event is an exciting moment for YouTube.”
McKenna added: “As rights-holders, Formula E is doing the smart thing by allowing creators and their audiences to decide how we consume the sport. Their faith in the platform and community is important.”
For an in-depth look at the striking new-for-2018 Formula E cars, buy the latest issue of Motor Sport. Visit the shop to buy and download.
As Formula E enters its tenth season, it's still seen with scepticism by racing fans. But as coverage switches to pay TV, it is now worth watching, says Damien Smith
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