BBC Coverage

[Robinho]

I appreciate it won't make a lot of difference, but the government e petition system has a "keep F1 free to air" that hasattracted 22k signatures so far. If it gets to 100k it has to be debated in parliament so worth having a go at least - find it here:

Keep Formula 1 Free To Air in the UK - e-petitions (http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/57)

[BDunnell]

If it gets to 100k it has to be debated in parliament

Not actually true, as far as I know. Doesn't it just open up the possibility of a debate? Fat lot of use it will do in any case.

[Mark]

Even if it were there's nothing government can do about it.

[BDunnell]

Quite. It's a commercial transaction and nothing scandalous or illegal — just unpopular.

[ArrowsFA1]

Not actually true, as far as I know. Doesn't it just open up the possibility of a debate?
Correct.

...if it gets at least 100,000 signatures, it will be eligible for debate in the House of Commons.
HM Government e-petitions (http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/)

In other words, it will be for the government to decide whether a petition with 100,000+ signatures gets debated or not.

[Somebody]

2012 calendar's been updated: Bahrain in; Turkey gets the flick (http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/08/bahrain-in-turkey-gets-the-flick-fia-confirms-20-race-f1-calendar-for-2012/)

Hmm... Wonder if the BBC will take Australia live. On the one hand, it's in a pig of a timeslot, and so not necessarily "worth" taking live, and on the other, it's the start of the season and there's no races in a decent timezone until Bahrain (Spain, if they don't do Bahrain for obvious reasons).

Australia, Spain, Monaco, Canada, GB, Belgium, Italy, Abu Dhabi, USA, Brazil; perhaps?

[Mark]

I guess it depends how the races are divided up. Does Sky get to pick which races it wants exclusive coverage of and the BBC gets the rest?

[inimitablestoo]

According to Autosport a few weeks ago, one company gets to pick three races (I forget who goes first but it may be the BBC, hence the confirmation of Monaco, Britain and the finale), then the other picks three, they might well repeat that process, and then they negotiate over the rest. Although it could well come down to rock-paper-scissors :)

[steveaki13]

I guess it depends how the races are divided up. Does Sky get to pick which races it wants exclusive coverage of and the BBC gets the rest?

Wouldn't mind betting that is what happens. Sky will want the big ones as more people will subscribe to watch the jewels they miss on BBC, rather than watching the important races on BBC and subscribing for Bahrain. Hardly.

[IceWizard]

I thought I had read somewhere that BBC chooses the first three races followed by Sky picking three for exclsuive coverage. They then alternate picking one race at a time to divide up the remainder.

[AndyL]

So if you're Sky, which 3 would you pick after the BBC have taken Monaco, GB and Brazil? Maybe Germany, Belgium and Italy?

[wedge]

I thought I had read somewhere that BBC chooses the first three races followed by Sky picking three for exclsuive coverage. They then alternate picking one race at a time to divide up the remainder.

Monaco GP, British GP and last race are shown on BBC by default.

[Knock-on]

I would take Monaco, Spa and GB if I were BBC.

[inimitablestoo]

Interesting to read in today's Autosport, meanwhile, that even for the races where the BBC will be showing "highlights only" the red button may well show a full race re-run.

[Mark]

Sounds just like speculation without facts right now.

[IceWizard]

Sounds just like speculation without facts right now.
Not really speculation - it says in the Autosport article that the non BBC races will be shown in full on the red button approximately three hours after they've finished.

[SGWilko]

BBC to face questioning from MPs over switch to shared F1 coverage - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/94168)

[Malbec]

One thing is for certain is how much Bernie, the BBC and Sky underestimated the backlash from fans in the UK and other countries that benefit from the BBC's race coverage. Its clear each party has a different version of events and one is clearly lying. Considering Bernie has gone back on two previous statements made since the beginning of June, I think he will be in the spotlight. It does make you wonder how Sky are planning to make their money out of this? Its obvious they are not going to get anywhere near the same amount of viewers as the BBC coverage unless they were expecting fans to start buying subscriptions in their hundreds of thousands? At the moment Sky are paying £45m to show 10 races a season to around a million viewers. Doesn't seem very cost effective to me and the publicity and weight behind the backlash can't be helping them.

I guess it only starts making sense if you assume that after the current contract runs out SKY will have exclusive coverage...

As for the full race reruns on the red button, presumably these will not be available on iPlayer? Can red button programmes be recorded?

[SGWilko]

I guess it only starts making sense if you assume that after the current contract runs out SKY will have exclusive coverage...

I doubt it - the only way it was allowed was on the basis that all the races would be shown (not necessarily live) on FTA TV


As for the full race reruns on the red button, presumably these will not be available on iPlayer? Can red button programmes be recorded?

Freeview PVR's can record the BBC red button, as this is broadcast on channel 301/2/3.

[Malbec]

Freeview PVR's can record the BBC red button, as this is broadcast on channel 301/2/3.

Fantastic. Didn't know that, my wife will be pleased :)

[SGWilko]

Fantastic. Didn't know that, my wife will be pleased :)

Technically, you can also download iPlayer broadcasts to the iPlayer desktop application and then use suitable cables from PC to DVD recorder etc to record the content more or less indefinately - the iPlayer download being time limited.

[jens]

After all the criticism by F1 fans about the BBC/Sky decision I can add that in Estonia it has been like that for a couple of years already. Live coverage on pay TV and full race is also shown ~hour later on terrestrial TV. To me it's fine, I can watch a race an hour later too, not a big deal. All in all - you will get used to it, just need the right mindset for it. :)

[SGWilko]

After all the criticism by F1 fans about the BBC/Sky decision I can add that in Estonia it has been like that for a couple of years already. Live coverage on pay TV and full race is also shown ~hour later on terrestrial TV. To me it's fine, I can watch a race an hour later too, not a big deal. All in all - you will get used to it, just need the right mindset for it. :)

But - the point that we are so upset about here in blighty, is that the BBC comes along, revolutionises the coverage, then, for reasons purely political, pulls the plug mid contract. That and the fact that Channel 4 were willing to pay to keep all the races live, albeit with adverts back in......

[SGWilko]

Yeah and to add to that you can also watch the free practices on iplayer this season even though they are on the Red Button. :)

I've yet to see FP3 available on iPlayer like FP1 & 2 are however.

[The Black Knight]

BBC to face questioning from MPs over switch to shared F1 coverage - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/94168)

That gets a major thumbs up from me! I don't thinkt hey can do anything about it in the end though.

[SGWilko]

That gets a major thumbs up from me! I don't thinkt hey can do anything about it in the end though.

I wouldn't be too sure about that just yet. There's a lot more mileage in this story yet........

Also, you can bet your bottom dollar that the teams will demand further assurances regarding FTA coverage in the new concorde negotiations. After all sponsors fund the teams and they expend maximum coverage in return.....

[AndyL]

After all the criticism by F1 fans about the BBC/Sky decision I can add that in Estonia it has been like that for a couple of years already. Live coverage on pay TV and full race is also shown ~hour later on terrestrial TV. To me it's fine, I can watch a race an hour later too, not a big deal. All in all - you will get used to it, just need the right mindset for it. :)

It'll be hard to get used to not having live timing. It gives you so much more understanding of different drivers' strategies, and who is doing what to make their strategy work, than you can get from the TV coverage alone. Much of the time, drivers who are racing each other are a long way apart on the track, and without the timing you can't tell who's gaining the upper hand. Having had that luxury for several years it'll be sorely missed when the races are no longer live.

[jonny hurlock]

But - the point that we are so upset about here in blighty, is that the BBC comes along, revolutionises the coverage, then, for reasons purely political, pulls the plug mid contract. That and the fact that Channel 4 were willing to pay to keep all the races live, albeit with adverts back in......

I couldn't say it any better, IMO i don't have a problem if the ads are back in on a channel 4 deal. Anyway with the MPs questioning the BBC, we will get the answers of either BBC or Bernie who sold out the coverage to SKY.

[Mark]

No live coverage means you can't have chat on the forum either.

And as far as I know you can't record the red button with Sky+

[Mark]

I'm not surprised he wants to keep his options open. But the rumours are that the commentary team for Sky and BBC will be the same.

[inimitablestoo]

So I'm guessing the coverage won't be on BBC Parliament any time soon... ;)

[manta400]

anybody recon Jake Humphrey and EJ will do F1 for BBC next year or will they present for BBC and Sky? It will be sad to see the team split up, Jake has his eyes on the Olympics (boring) I have only started back watching F1 since the BBC took over so hopefully they can keep the guys on

[Mark]

tbh I wouldn't be surprised if all of them; EJ, DC, Jake and Brundle deciding to do other things next year and we'll look back at 2011 as the year of the dream team.

[tfp]

tbh I wouldn't be surprised if all of them; EJ, DC, Jake and Brundle deciding to do other things next year and we'll look back at 2011 as the year of the dream team.

Its a shame, I think they work really well togethor, eddie argueing with team bosses, wearing dodgy clothes...it all makes for good television.

[CNR]

Ecclestone says BBC/Sky explanation 'not realistic' | F1 News | Sep 2011 | Crash.Net (http://www.crash.net/f1/news/172782/1/ecclestone_says_bbcsky_explanation_not_realistic.h tml)

[Mark]

The BBC are too cautious?! Nonsense! They are providing the best F1 coverage we've ever seen!

[steveaki13]

The BBC are too cautious?! Nonsense! They are providing the best F1 coverage we've ever seen!

Agree.

What else could the BBC realistically do, they have all practice sessions on Red Button, they have two hour Qualifying show, and best part of 4 hours covering the race, with new and interviews from many in F1, coupled with Radio and internet blogs and updates. All that the viewer can interact with via twitter and email.

How is this too cautious.

What is Bernie wanting. Apart from more money..

[SGWilko]

What is Bernie wanting. Apart from more money..

Even more money, wet dreams of money.......

[52Paddy]

He probably never heard the expression: if it ain't broke, don't fix it!

Or perhaps he heard it differently. Maybe something along the lines of: if it ain't broke, break it, and run away with all the money left behind by the unfortunate losers.

[wedge]

What is Bernie wanting. Apart from more money..

PR BS

He's been made a scapegoat out of this whole affair. It was the Beeb who talked with Sky into the deal because if it went to Ch4 then BBC's the free-to-air rights would have been compromised.


The BBC are too cautious?! Nonsense! They are providing the best F1 coverage we've ever seen!

Bernie is regarded as a highly accomplished businessman. Brundle once said that Bernie's remarks are like coded messages.

BBC don't rest on your laurels?


tbh I wouldn't be surprised if all of them; EJ, DC, Jake and Brundle deciding to do other things next year and we'll look back at 2011 as the year of the dream team.

I highly doubt Jake would leave.

Jake is a bit like the Lewis Hamilton of sports broadcasting. He did kids TV on the Beeb before doing a bit of footie, fronting NFL coverage and getting the F1 gig.

It seems people have forgotten that Jake left F1 for a time to do the Commonwealth Games because Jake said he wanted to present the Olympic Games.

[Dave B]

The head of BBC sport has apparently been sighted in Monza so either she's on holiday or there's still some negotiation going on.

[wedge]

Or the BBC are spending some of this money they claim they haven't got sending the head of BBC sport out on a jolly to keep up appearances lol? I hope more negotiation is happening because 75 minute highlights just aren't good enough.. :)

Considering that most races are over 90 mins, 75mins seems fair for highlights for most races IMO.

[52Paddy]

Considering that most races are over 90 mins, 75mins seems fair for highlights for most races IMO.

Yes but not as the sole available coverage.

[christophulus]

F1 fans at Monza chanting behind EJ and Jake after the race. Made me laugh!

[Dave B]

Eddie is far more popular than one might expect, and the anti-Sky chanting was almost as funny as the "Sky News is sh##, watch the BBC" from the general election coverage. :D

[Mark]

Apparently the Singapore GP is in August.

How could they make such a mistake. They should be prevented from covering F1 and closed down like they did with News of the World.

[Mark]

Harsh!!

[52Paddy]

F1 fans at Monza chanting behind EJ and Jake after the race. Made me laugh!

That was brilliant. A decent proof that we don't want Sky.

[Mark]

Another great 4 hours of F1 coverage from the BBC. I can't see Sky doing the same!

[steveaki13]

That is true, adds will surely be all over the place after the race finishes and no parc ferme, no podium or press conferences live.

[Mark]

Well it doesn't matter, I won't be watching the Sky coverage.

[wedge]

F1 fans at Monza chanting behind EJ and Jake after the race. Made me laugh!

Gotta love Jake's professionalism. A stint on kids TV is handy!

A relief Ch4 didn't get the F1 rights. Those executives are utter pillocks thinking they can hire any young male TV presenter to front sports coverage.

A6o52kZxvtg

[The Black Knight]

Gotta love Jake's professionalism. A stint on kids TV is handy!

A relief Ch4 didn't get the F1 rights. Those executives are utter pillocks thinking they can hire any young male TV presenter to front sports coverage.


I think Jake is one of the best presenters I've ever seen. He knows exactly when enough is enough and when to take over and direct a discussion in a new direction.

This stood out for me in Hungary mostly when Heidfeld's engine blew up and they were rolling the car back towards the pit lane. EJ said a silly comment along the lines of "We should find out the full facts before criticsing the marshalls". Then immediately realising that the Marshall should not be criticised Jake interrupted and said something along the lines of "Well we're certainly not criticising the Marshalls at all. They did a great job in tough circumstances" and quickly covered up EJ's blunder and moved off topic.

[Mark]

Gotta love Jake's professionalism. A stint on kids TV is handy!

All presenters should do kids TV first. It's a brilliant grounding for them.


A relief Ch4 didn't get the F1 rights. Those executives are utter pillocks thinking they can hire any young male TV presenter to front sports coverage.


The BBC isn't adversed to that too. I still remember Blue Peter presenter on the RAC rally coverage!

[wedge]

The BBC isn't adversed to that too. I still remember Blue Peter presenter on the RAC rally coverage!

Yep, the minority sports went to the rookies.

I remember John Leslie doing the RAC highlights but he didn't look out of his depth and made a professional job of it even though you had an inkling he had no idea what he was talking about half the time.

But Ch4 have a history with slick sports presentation with their flagship sports - think cricket, NFL, Football Italia, WRC

[jonny hurlock]

Gotta love Jake's professionalism. A stint on kids TV is handy!

A relief Ch4 didn't get the F1 rights. Those executives are utter pillocks thinking they can hire any young male TV presenter to front sports coverage.

The problem is with the presenter Otis something, is the knowledge to the sport, knowing the names of the people who are participating, to me or the events, is poor ground work to be honest from Otis, anyway channel 4 have done better with their presentation and productions side back in the past with the WRC back in 2002. and cricket, so forth IMHO

[Mia 01]

The cover in our country is quit acceplable, we have one channel (10) who is free but it only cover the race. And then we could pay for another channel who sends it all, all practices and so on. The latter is my feed.

[Somebody]

Begs the question which would be better - half the weekends in full on the Beeb and the other half barely covered, or every Sunday but *only* Sunday on the Beeb with Friday & Saturday practice/quali all Sky-only...

[Mark]

Clearly the latter. Qualy etc is nice but in the end it's only the race that matters.

[BDunnell]

The BBC isn't adversed to that too. I still remember Blue Peter presenter on the RAC rally coverage!

Only for one year when it wasn't a full World Championship event, though!

Jake Humphrey offers a perfect blend of qualities for a modern-day F1 presenter. He manages to be informal yet sufficiently serious to carry it off, and, crucially, he knows his stuff. The BBC couldn't have chosen better. This generally goes for everyone the BBC has used for its sports coverage, whether on TV or radio. The same cannot be said of independent broadcasters.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Thanks to the EU we can watch the F1 using foreign satellite channels!

Just turn the sound down and listen to Crofty and Ant :)

[Mark]

Turns out my in-laws have just subscribed to Sky Sports. I know what I'll be doing for 10 weekends next year!

[CNR]

bad news i think for some of you
Court ruling spells trouble for British split TV deal (http://www.inautonews.com/court-ruling-spells-trouble-for-british-split-tv-deal)

The Telegraph reports that the court showed a green light to the use of foreign digital TV decoders within the United Kingdom, meaning viewers might be able to avoid paying for Sky’s subscription coverage.



Ecclestone said he doubts British people will want to watch coverage with foreign-language commentary, and cast doubt on some viewers’ plans to use foreign decoders in conjunction with British ‘5 Live’ radio.
“That’s if 5 Live still have the rights,” he said.
“We could stop that. Ultimately I think people want something they can see and listen to live with the commentary in sync.”

[The Black Knight]

Meh, if worst comes to worst people can just get a sopcast stream of the Sky Sports coverage. It may not be live quality but it sure beats paying Sky 500+ a year for most people. See if you have the power to stop that one, Mr. Ecclestone.

[Mark]

It's nothing to worry about. Most people don't have a clue how to pick up foreign stations - I'm one of them!

[Bruce D]

Amazing the efforts Mr. E seems to be going through lately to screw the hand that feeds him, i.e. the paying public.

[52Paddy]

It solidly proves his greed and selfishness regarding the situation. He doesn't care about the paying public - not that we, personally, needed to be told :rolleyes:

[AndyL]

Yes I can't see it becoming a widespread issue. By the time you've got your foreign decoder box, maybe a subscription, and a largish dish set up by an aerial installer to point at the relevant satellite, you've probably paid close to what you would have paid for Sky with a subsidised box and installation. Perhaps worth it for a pub given Sky's commercial subscription rates, but probably not for most domestic situations.

Re Bernie's statement about the BBC radio rights, well the BBC seemed pretty confident that they still have them next year. Of course we always have to take anything Bernie says with a pinch of salt.

But you know what, I think I could live without commentary. I'd rather have live coverage (with live timing) and no commentary, than delayed coverage with commentary but no timing. I reckon I could pretend I was Martin Brundle and do my own commentary, and imagine the chat box on this forum as DC chipping in with helpful comments :)

[Mark]

I do wonder how many participants we'd get without live coverage. I was thinking less but perhaps more?

[Bezza]

I have Sky Sports and intend to watch the F1 when it is on.

What I am worried about is the commentary team. I see the uncomfortable return of James Allen and Tony Jardine (who is already on Sky) and despite no adverts during races, the influx of ridiculous amounts of adverts before and after. See Golf coverage for the shocking abuse of adverts on Sky!

My current plan for the 10 Sky-only races is to watch the race from parade lap to chequered flag, no build up, no post-race analysis, and Sky+ the BBC highlights and watch them through for their superior coverage and analysis. That way I get the live race and the analysis fairly close together.

However, if James Allen is employed by Sky I will cancel my entire Sky subscription with immediate effect. I am contemplating doing it now because of Gary Neville!

[Mark]

The rumour is that the commentary teams may well be the same.

[Bezza]

Good news if true, Mark :up:

Henners you just reminded me of a horrible James Allen moment.

Suzuka, 2007 (I think)

"What a wonderful piece of gamesmanship from Lewis Hamilton" - oxy moron at its best!

[janneppi]

I do wonder how many participants we'd get without live coverage. I was thinking less but perhaps more?

You mean forum participation?

Few years ago live F1 rights were moved to pay channels, which I haven't bothered getting.
When watching through sopcast thingies the lag is about 5 minutes, that pushed me away from the forum live chats. When I watch the free version which airs 3 hours after the event, I stay away from the forums during that 3hours + race time, and after that it's already pointless to post to five page tirades about whoever Hamilton hit in that race. :D

You might indeed end up with less participation.

[wedge]

Good news if true, Mark :up:

Henners you just reminded me of a horrible James Allen moment.

Suzuka, 2007 (I think)

"What a wonderful piece of gamesmanship from Lewis Hamilton" - oxy moron at its best!

Biased, yes, but oxymoron - no. Gamesmanship for a person they are pushing the limits of tolerance, to the other it is regarded as cheating.

[wedge]

Only for one year when it wasn't a full World Championship event, though!

Jake Humphrey offers a perfect blend of qualities for a modern-day F1 presenter. He manages to be informal yet sufficiently serious to carry it off, and, crucially, he knows his stuff. The BBC couldn't have chosen better. This generally goes for everyone the BBC has used for its sports coverage, whether on TV or radio. The same cannot be said of independent broadcasters.

Apart from the recent athletics debacle, you could say the same for Ch4. Danny Kelly has been surprisingly very good replacing Gary Imlach for the NFL coverage.

[Mark]

You mean forum participation?
You might indeed end up with less participation.

I was thinking in terms of participation in the live chats which go on during the races. It may be that some without live coverage will still want to follow the race.. But in terms of forum participation, you may well be right, I think there will be at least some here who will lose interest in following Formula 1 closely if they can't watch every race live.

[Andrewmcm]

The rumour is that the commentary teams may well be the same.

The entire production teams should be the same. Just give them two sets of uniforms and tell them to remember to wear the correct one at the correct race!

Or is that far too sensible?

[tommy2k8]

This is my virtual letter to the BBC, thanking them and Bernie Ecclestone for being too greedy and doing illegal stuff: (to sad piano playing in the background)

Dear BBC

You are meant to be the national broadcaster, someone who people can turn to in times of sadness and despair, to lift out spirits.
You have been accused of dumbing down in the past, but I could forgive you, until July of 2011.
That will go down in history as the month that the BBC (British Betrayal Corporation) signed a deal with Sky.
Why, or why, BBC, did you do it?
You say it is in the fans interest. Take the person who hasn't got Sky and has watched F1 since it started, they can't follow a whole season, nor can his son, his grandson, and so on.
Oh, and what will we have to 'look forward to' in the place of live BBC races, endless repeats of Keeping Up Appearances and Eastenders?
Well done, BBC, you may have some of the season, but in some ways, whats the point - you have robbed us of the sport that we love.
I also remember you, our beloved BBC, saying you'd never cut a contract short - well, you have done!
Bernie - shame on you!
So, BBC and Bernie - F1 will never be the same again, thanks for nothing!

[Lemmy-Boy]

Ummm...the year is 2011. Why complain about the BBC/Sky, etc. You can watch a live stream of all F1 races from the Internet in HD, regardless of the provider.

Best of all, it's FREE! A GOOGLE search can do wonders!

[CNR]

Martin Brundle expected to join Sky TV's new Formula One commentary team
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8844664/Martin-Brundle-expected-to-join-Sky-TVs-new-Formula-One-commentary-team.html

[AndyL]

Martin Brundle expected to join Sky TV's new Formula One commentary team
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/8844664/Martin-Brundle-expected-to-join-Sky-TVs-new-Formula-One-commentary-team.html

And according to that story they are taking Croft as well. I hope Radio 5 Live get a decent replacement.

[wedge]

I hope Radio 5 Live get a decent replacement.

Stop the cock! MK II (Ledgard, not Allen!)

[AndyL]

Stop the cock! MK II (Ledgard, not Allen!)

Maybe they'll bring Maurice Hamilton back.

[wedge]

Ant and Maurice would be worth listening to.

As much as I enjoy Leigh Diffey but a the likelihood of listening to an Aussie and a Scot, notwithstanding an extroverted Irishman.

Hmmmm.....

all three on a boat in Monaco....

[CNR]

Ant and Maurice would be worth listening to.

As much as I enjoy Leigh Diffey but a the likelihood of listening to an Aussie and a Scot,

http://ten.com.au/one-hd-leigh-diffey.htm

Currently based in the United States, Leigh is one of the longest serving members on the ONE/Ten sports team.
Leigh is one of the main anchors and commentators on the popular Nth American motorsport channel SPEED.

[Mark]

I see the BBC has announced they are keeping Wimbledon coverage - this is what we are losing ten Grand Prix for.

[Knock-on]

I suspect more of the big wigs at Broadcasting House prefer hobnobbing with Royalty and Cliff Richard while scoffing Champers and Strawberries down at SW19 rather than having to associate with those uncouth, common, noisy hooligans in their ghastly motorcars.

[BDunnell]

I think it is reasonable to suggest that Wimbledon is more of a 'national occasion' than is the Formula One season, and therefore merits being kept. Plus, everyone has their own favourite sports that they want to see on TV. Not everyone's is F1.

[Knock-on]

BBC - Sport Editors: New F1 deal explained (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/sporteditors/2011/07/f1_coverage_to_be_shared_betwe.html)

8415 posts to this 'explanation' from the Beeb and almost exclusivly are critical to the BBC's decision. I say almost all are critical but after the first 100 on the first page, I gave up.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/complaints/pdf/summary_aug2011.pdf

Keep the complaints going in!!!

Yes, they still continue to receive complaints about F1. I suggest keeping up the pressure so that it makes a hole too big to ignore in their figures.

[steveaki13]

I suspect more of the big wigs at Broadcasting House prefer hobnobbing with Royalty and Cliff Richard while scoffing Champers and Strawberries down at SW19 rather than having to associate with those uncouth, common, noisy hooligans in their ghastly motorcars.


This should be read with the voice of Henry "Blowers" Blofeld saying it, fits perfectly.

[Sarah]

I can't imagine Wimbledon being on anything other than the BBC - think that would be the one thing they would always fight for.

[52Paddy]

My friend was talking to Eddie Jordan after a seminar in Trinity College, Dublin a few weeks ago. They talked briefly about the F1 TV situation and he said that he would not go to Sky but that Martin Brundle was. Take what you want from it: I'll be disappointed not to see Eddie on the TV as I liked his character (even though he's flawed in many ways) but I'm also happy that he seems to be demonstrating his dislike for the new deal, if indeed this is his own choice to not go.

[Mark]

Well we don't yet know if commentary is likely to be shared or not.

[Antony Michael Peacock]

Well we don't yet know if commentary is likely to be shared or not.
Just found this forum, and this is a fitting thread to start on.
Sky won't want to share to share their commentary feed with any other broadcaster, because if they do, can't keep talking about how great Sky is, and then there is 2013, when the commentary and coverage will interrupted every 15 mins for ad breaks. Sky only said that there would be no adverts 'next year' so in 2013 you will be bombarded with adverts,
You will be paying £400-£600 to be advertised to.

[Andrewmcm]

Just found this forum, and this is a fitting thread to start on.
Sky won't want to share to share their commentary feed with any other broadcaster, because if they do, can't keep talking about how great Sky is, and then there is 2013, when the commentary and coverage will interrupted every 15 mins for ad breaks. Sky only said that there would be no adverts 'next year' so in 2013 you will be bombarded with adverts,
You will be paying £400-£600 to be advertised to.


Do you have a quote or a link which verifies your claim of no adverts only in 2012? I don't recall the wording of the press releases from Sky which could be interpreted in that manner.

[Mark]

I'd be pretty pissed to pay all that and still have to watch adverts. Mind you it's not like I'm going to pay anyway.

[Mark]

Has anyone looked at Sky Go? If like me you don't have / want / can't afford Sky Sports but crucially know someone who does have Sky Sports then you can register two 'devices' such as iPhones etc (not sure if real computers too?) with the Sky Go service which will allow you to watch live Sky Sports.

Currently my in-laws are Sky Sports subscribers so presumably if I could persuade them to give me their login details I could watch F1 on my iPhone (or iPad if I get one!).

It's not the same as a proper TV, but better than nowt I guess.

[Knock-on]

Sky Go is superb. It allows me to access all the Sky channels I subscribe to anywhere I have a suitable broadband access. I can access it through my Laptop and plug it straight into the TV.

[SGWilko]

I used the Sky Go priciple back in 2007 when belt tightening was required due to the cost of my then mortgage - I rang up Sky and told them where to Go!!! :D

I'll never go back, there was too much tut on the box then, and I get just as much tut on freeview without it costing me an arm, leg and a lung.

[jonny hurlock]

Has anyone looked at Sky Go? If like me you don't have / want / can't afford Sky Sports but crucially know someone who does have Sky Sports then you can register two 'devices' such as iPhones etc (not sure if real computers too?) with the Sky Go service which will allow you to watch live Sky Sports.

Currently my in-laws are Sky Sports subscribers so presumably if I could persuade them to give me their login details I could watch F1 on my iPhone (or iPad if I get one!).

It's not the same as a proper TV, but better than nowt I guess.

Watch Live TV app for iphone and ipad, got RTL (that guy with the crazy shirts that is not Eddie Jordan and Nicky Lauda), but it does crash a lot with the app i've got,

[yodasarmpit]

Yeah Sky Go is pretty impressive.

[jonny hurlock]

BBC commits UK£160 million to renew Six Nations rights - Sports Broadcast news - Rugby Europe - SportsPro Media (http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/bbc_commits_uk160_million_to_renew_six_nations_rig hts/)

Now £25m a season for half an F1 season, while six nations is £40m for 2 months. Now that has really make me anger, BIGTIME!

[tfp]

Its not exactly saving money is it?

Its great for people who want to watch huge blokes chase an egg around a field I guess. Personally, I prefer racing.

[wedge]

Value for money is questionable but good for the BBC's portfolio and free-to-air sports coverage as a whole.

[AndyL]

BBC highlight of the year: Jake's expression when DC said "it's difficult to make rubber appear sexy" :D

[jonny hurlock]

Really could have done without the BBC doing a segment at the end of the race plugging the fact most fans can't watch every race live. Yes we've been trying to come to terms with that for 6 months now and know its a crappy deal thanks very much!

"Every race on the BBC in 2012"... Thats abit like saying every Premiership football match is shown on the BBC because each match gets a mention on Match of the day, or the score is read out on the news... Its not the same and regardless of how it is marketed or painted up, its a crap deal allround for most. :(

Totally agree with that comment, turned the TV afterwards when that happen.

Out of interested if anyone know, does Germany (RTL and Sky Germany) and some other European countries have two channels, showing F1 at the same time, with all races live? why the BBC didn't done that, instead of 10 GP a season.

BTW Jake was terrible with every thing today, including the fact that Senna won the Brazilian GP 20 years today, despite the Grand Prix was in March/April 1991 not November 1991, idiot.

[steveaki13]

red button forum crashed

[MrJan]

BTW Jake was terrible with every thing today, including the fact that Senna won the Brazilian GP 20 years today, despite the Grand Prix was in March/April 1991 not November 1991, idiot.

That's picky. Especially as I believe he said "this race weekend". To call him an idiot for it??!!

[AndyL]

red button forum crashed

Ironically just as they were interviewing Mr Button. A pretty anticlimactic end to what was probably the best year of F1 TV coverage we'll see for a long time.

[djparky]

that was annoying- JB is usually good fun- that was a very entertaining forum- does it appear on the BBC website at some point? I missed the start of it

[Dave B]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/378672_325483474135639_112753062075349_1491576_225 042054_n.jpg

That's all folks!

[Dave B]

Harsh but fair.

[Dave B]

The Forum in full on BBC iPlayer soon...with an extra goodbye added onto the end. Thanks for your company/banter/questions - more in 2012..?

And Lee McKenzie has confirmed she's staying with the Beeb.

[Mark]

From the chat at the end of the race at least Jake Humphrey and David Coulthard are staying with the BBC.

[Dave B]

Jake definately is as he's aiming to anchor their Olympics coverage; as I understand (and I could well be wrong) DC is staying as co-commentator along with someone who may be known to regular viewers of the BTCC ;)

[Andrewmcm]

That's quite a step up for Tim Harvey......

[BDunnell]

Jake definately is as he's aiming to anchor their Olympics coverage; as I understand (and I could well be wrong) DC is staying as co-commentator along with someone who may be known to regular viewers of the BTCC ;)

Regular current viewers or regular long-standing viewers with memories of previous BBC coverage?

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Regular current viewers or regular long-standing viewers with memories of previous BBC coverage?

Murray?

[BDunnell]

Murray?

Cox or Edwards was really what I was wondering.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Cox or Edwards was really what I was wondering.

I know. :p

I'd prefer Cox but I think Edwards would do a decent job.

[BDunnell]

I know. :p

I'd prefer Cox but I think Edwards would do a decent job.

Sorry — I sort of half-realised you were joking!

[Mark]

As I understand it however the BBC could still take the Sky commentary feed - but it's understandable if they want to have their own commentators. That will be a difficult choice then, watch Sky with Martin Brundle or BBC with Coulthard!

Another interesting point from the race roundup - they said see us in Australia on "BBC One and BBC One HD" - now I'd previously read that Sky had exclusive rights to show F1 in HD, so I'd assumed there would be no HD coverage on the BBC next year - but perhaps this is no longer the case?

[inimitablestoo]

Another interesting point from the race roundup - they said see us in Australia on "BBC One and BBC One HD" - now I'd previously read that Sky had exclusive rights to show F1 in HD, so I'd assumed there would be no HD coverage on the BBC next year - but perhaps this is no longer the case?
That may still be the case - but BBC1 HD carries BBC1 whether the actual programme's in HD or not, so technically it will be there...

Besides, HD is the only way to watch Eddie Jordan's shirts... :D

[Robinho]

I know. :p

I'd prefer Cox .......

Really? ;)

[wedge]

Cox or Edwards was really what I was wondering.

I wouldn't want Charlie Cox. He's better off commentating on Touring Cars.

He's alright for MotoGP and just suits the sport but I know this sounds elitist - and F1 is. It needs authority and some witty humour.

Hearing CC sounds like he's commentating on Whacky Races.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Why not Crofty and Ant being promoted to the TV coverage?

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Hearing CC sounds like he's commentating on Whacky Races.

Quite appropriate for DRS, KERS and Pirelli tyres.

CC would come up with some fantastic catchphrases in F1.

'And Hamilton is as close as you like as they go into the DRS zone, he drops the wing, pushes the kers and he's really got the magnets on!! Poor old Mark Webber has gone from hero-to-zero, the guy has so much bad luck that if he fell in a skip of boobs he'd climb out sucking his own thumb'

[Mark]

'And Hamilton is as close as you like as they go into the DRS zone, he drops the wing, pushes the kers and he's really got the magnets on!! Poor old Mark Webber has gone from hero-to-zero, the guy has so much bad luck that if he fell in a skip of boobs he'd climb out sucking his own thumb'

LOL. Sounds about right.

[I am evil Homer]

Why not Crofty and Ant being promoted to the TV coverage?

My thoughts exactly. They're a great partnership and Ant brings that insider view that's always useful.

[BDunnell]

Quite appropriate for DRS, KERS and Pirelli tyres.

My thought exactly!

Oh, and David Croft potentially ending up on Sky is, to me, yet another reason not to watch its coverage. Maybe it's just me, but I cannot bear listening to him.

[wedge]

Quite appropriate for DRS, KERS and Pirelli tyres.

CC would come up with some fantastic catchphrases in F1.



Exactly why I wouldn't want CC as lead commentator.

[aryan]

I am not old enough to remember Murray, but I have watched plenty of commentary since. On ITV, Star Sports (Asia), Speed (US) and the BBC.

And I have to say, I think we will look back at 2011 and the DC, Brundle work as the best pairing and the best F1 commentary in a long time.

I will really miss them. They were such a good team. Will really miss them.

[52Paddy]

Edwards does, at least, have experience of commentating on F1 in the past with John Watson on Eurosport. You'll find a few clips on Youtube if you search for videos around the mid 90s.

One thing that really adds salt to the wound is that, of all the races that the BBC will be showing live, the season opener won't be one of them :mad: Fingers crossed that Setanta Sports will show live coverage of every race!

[Mark]

One thing that really adds salt to the wound is that, of all the races that the BBC will be showing live, the season opener won't be one of them :mad: Fingers crossed that Setanta Sports will show live coverage of every race!

Yeah, but Australia is the middle of the night anyway, so most people will be watching either the re-run or a recording anyway. Myself I'll be recording it and watching it back later.

If the BBC get to choose which races they don't want to show then it makes sense that it would be those on at funny times of the day.

[Dave B]

If the BBC get to choose which races they don't want to show then it makes sense that it would be those on at funny times of the day.
Apparently they got the first three picks, then Sky got the next three, then they alternated.



My understanding is that the BBC had the first three picks. It went for Monaco, Silverstone and the season finale in Brazil. You can't really argue with any of those. The first two speak for themselves while the third – well, imagine if we get a repeat of 2008 next year with Lewis Hamilton going for the title at Interlagos… the BBC couldn't afford to take the risk.

Sky then had the next three picks and then there was a system whereby I'm told they alternated. But there were stipulations. Neither channel could pick three consecutive races. In other words, the BBC was not allowed to have three consecutive races live while Sky was not allowed three consecutive races exclusively live, which made it rather tricky. Try it for yourself.

http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tomcary/100021994/bbc-race-picks-disappoint-fans-but-aunties-hands-were-tied/

[Mark]

But Sky will be sweating, too, particularly on the outcome of the Bahrain and Austin grands prix, both of which it has exclusively live. One or both of those could be dropped at the WMSC meeting in a couple of weeks.

I wonder what the contract has to say about this. It was my understanding that it was worded in favour of Sky, but at this point I can't see the BBC accepting having to give up live coverage of one of their races because Sky has lost a race.

[Bezza]

My thought exactly!

Oh, and David Croft potentially ending up on Sky is, to me, yet another reason not to watch its coverage. Maybe it's just me, but I cannot bear listening to him.

No, your not the only one. I can't stand him. He drones on and on, and has the same false excitement as James Allen which irritates me.

Charlie Cox would be either a masterstroke, or a complete mess. But I would like to find out :) He would be certainly in the Murray mould, simply commentating on the race, not talking about tyres or strategy - just telling us what is happening - DC would be the man to offer insight and analyze the race.

He would be my choice for a laugh, but I have a feeling that Ben Edwards is the man being lined up.

[Mark]

Ben Edwards has been touted for F1 coverage ever since Eurosport stopped covering F1 in the mid-90's. Perhaps his time has come...

[52Paddy]

Yeah, but Australia is the middle of the night anyway, so most people will be watching either the re-run or a recording anyway. Myself I'll be recording it and watching it back later.

If the BBC get to choose which races they don't want to show then it makes sense that it would be those on at funny times of the day.

This did cross my mind but it would have been nice to get the full race rather than highlights (even if they were not live). Having read now that the BBC only got to choose three of the races themselves, it's understandable with the choices they went for though, personally (and purely personally), I couldn't care less for the British GP coverage.

[Knock-on]

Apparently they got the first three picks, then Sky got the next three, then they alternated.


http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tomcary/100021994/bbc-race-picks-disappoint-fans-but-aunties-hands-were-tied/


I wonder who the two fat, spotty kids were that ended up as the last 2 ;)

[steveaki13]

Well I would like to thank the BBC for an all to short 3 year stint.

It was the best F1 coverage since I started watching F1 aged 5 or 6 in 1991, with the exception of Legard, it gave the best overall coverage. The bbc coverage pre 1997 was ok but ITV was pretty bad with ads and alike.

I do have Sky Sports so I will end up watching all races on Sky to keep with Brundle, however if and probably when they insert ads again I will return to BBC.

[BDunnell]

Ben Edwards has been touted for F1 coverage ever since Eurosport stopped covering F1 in the mid-90's. Perhaps his time has come...

One thing's for sure — if it is him, he will do a solid, professional job. I have never heard him doing anything other. I didn't like his BTCC highlights commentaries when ITV took over the coverage in 2002, but upon hearing him live was converted.

The side issue to all of this — will he still commentate on the BTCC if he does join the BBC F1 team? If not, who will replace him?

[Brown, Jon Brow]

One thing's for sure — if it is him, he will do a solid, professional job. I have never heard him doing anything other. I didn't like his BTCC highlights commentaries when ITV took over the coverage in 2002, but upon hearing him live was converted.

The side issue to all of this — will he still commentate on the BTCC if he does join the BBC F1 team? If not, who will replace him?

I'm guessing it would be one of the commentators from the supports races. Richard John Neil?

[Robinho]

not for me, i still think he is a prize pack of ****s

[DazzlaF1]

One thing's for sure — if it is him, he will do a solid, professional job. I have never heard him doing anything other. I didn't like his BTCC highlights commentaries when ITV took over the coverage in 2002, but upon hearing him live was converted.

The side issue to all of this — will he still commentate on the BTCC if he does join the BBC F1 team? If not, who will replace him?

Here is an example of Ben Edwards at his best, the final few laps of the Michigan 500 in 2000 co-commentating with Jeremy Shaw, in my view, its the most underrated commentary partnership ever

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZQZ6MjtGPQ

[tfp]

Eddie Jordan staying with the BBC for 2012.... Quite pleased about that as I have warmed to his idiotic comments and his cheek for asking awkward questions. :D

Nice one.. :up:

Same reasons why I like him :D

[52Paddy]

Here is an example of Ben Edwards at his best, the final few laps of the Michigan 500 in 2000 co-commentating with Jeremy Shaw, in my view, its the most underrated commentary partnership ever

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZQZ6MjtGPQ

I would definitely settle for that next year :up:

[The Black Knight]

Ben Edwards is a fine commentator. I remember before Eurosport lost the rights to F1 in 96 I used to watch him and John Watson's coverage all the time and I thoroughly enjoyed it. They were a good team in the commentary box.

I did expect Eddie Jordan to stay with the BBC. I am not sure he would really be Sky material, though I must say he has improved a lot this year and his commentary is far better.

[AndyL]

I think Brundle has been on our screens for so long now people become disillusioned that he is the best commentator for the sport. I don't think that for a second and like anyone else, there is always someone who can raise the bar. Persoanlly I would have liked either Edwards or Davidson to take over. Anthony has more recent F1 experience and often provides great insight when commentating on 5 Live.

Brundle has only been the actual commentator for one year, I'm sure you haven't forgotten what we had to put up with for the previous 10 years. So while he might not be the best possible, he is certainly the best we've had recently. But in any case the BBC don't need to compare their commentator (whoever that might be) to Brundle, since it looks like Croft will be the principle commentator for Sky, with Brundle stepping back to pundit.

Not sure about the idea of Davidson as a main commentator, I think it's a very different skill to that of being an expert pundit as he is now. Brundle made the switch, but I don't think that's representative - if you've seen the interview he gave after his first ever F1 race in 1984, it was clear even then that he was made for television.

[wedge]

Brundle made the switch, but I don't think that's representative - if you've seen the interview he gave after his first ever F1 race in 1984, it was clear even then that he was made for television.

SQ1q_h7q6iA

[Dave B]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO! :(


The BBC may look to Jonathan Legard or James Allen to fill the void left by Sky Sports' on-screen talent raid, as it seeks to rebuild its Formula One team virtually from scratch.
F1: BBC looks to rebuild team after talent raid by Sky | Media | guardian.co.uk (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/dec/07/f1-bbc-team-sky?CMP=twt_fd)

[AndyL]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO! :(


F1: BBC looks to rebuild team after talent raid by Sky | Media | guardian.co.uk (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/dec/07/f1-bbc-team-sky?CMP=twt_fd)

Some other interesting names mentioned in that article though (which seems to be largely a speculation piece) - Ben Edwards, who would clearly be a popular choice here, Toby Moody, Maurice Hamilton.

Toby Moody could be an inspired choice, but it seems unlikely. He was out of work back in winter 08/9 when the BBC took on the F1 coverage, and they didn't pick him then.

Maurice Hamilton seems like a good bet to come back into the BBC coverage in some capacity.

[BDunnell]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO! :(


F1: BBC looks to rebuild team after talent raid by Sky | Media | guardian.co.uk (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/dec/07/f1-bbc-team-sky?CMP=twt_fd)

If it is true about Allen and Legard being considered, what on earth is stopping them going for Ben Edwards, a far, far superior choice to either? I don't understand why he wouldn't be an automatic pick.

[AndyL]

If it is true about Allen and Legard being considered, what on earth is stopping them going for Ben Edwards, a far, far superior choice to either? I don't understand why he wouldn't be an automatic pick.

Because it would make a very short article and Guardian journos are paid by the word :)

[acescribe]

They obviously need to hire new for the radio - but really, if the BBC want to be shown to saving money they should just double take on Sky by using their commentary for the TV, which we are lead to believe in the terms of the deal they can. But, seeing as Jonathan Legard is still on the BBC payroll (he has been covering football on 5live this year) I suspect that he will be back.

Thank goodness my wife got us a Sky+ HD box last year :-)

[AndyRAC]

Get Paul King to do it, and get him away from the WRC with his 'live' commentary on highlights......... ;)

[Mark]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO! :(


F1: BBC looks to rebuild team after talent raid by Sky | Media | guardian.co.uk (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/dec/07/f1-bbc-team-sky?CMP=twt_fd)

I see your NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO! and raise you with a
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0O0OOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO0000000000OOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

[Mark]

Hmm possibly, kind of like the X-Factor changed everything and now it's crap(er)

[Alfa Fan]

Ben Edwards in at BBC. Wonder who ITV will get for BTCC now? Simon Hill perhaps?

[christophulus]

Ben Edwards in at BBC. Wonder who ITV will get for BTCC now? Simon Hill perhaps?

Good news! Ben Edwards to lead BBC's Formula 1 commentary team in 2012 - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/96736)

An Edwards/DC commentary team sounds pretty good on paper. At least the BBC has gone for a big(ish) name, might show they're actually committed to keeping F1 long term.

[Dr. Krogshöj]

The BBC team will be very strong indeed, Ben Edwards & David Coulthard is a strong pairing for the booth, Jake Humphrey & Eddie Jordan should provide colourful analysis...

[Dave B]

Told you ;)

[BDunnell]

Told you ;)

Indeed. By a long way the best choice. He ought to have been on live terrestrial F1 coverage long ago.

[Mark]

Absolutely. Remember he used to be the F1 commentator on Eurosport in the 1990's, together with John Watson, and has been tipped for every cometary role ever since.

[Mark]

However I'm disappointed that the BBC and Sky couldn't come to a deal to share cometary. But then the entire thing is disappointing.

But which do I listen to?! I guess just BBC for their live races and Sky for the rest would be a good mix.

[IceWizard]

Excellent news about Ben Edwards. I feel that him and DC are a better lineup than Brundle and DC were. Although Brundle and DC were good, it felt like there were two analysts in the booth rather than a lead commentator with an analyst. Of course, Sky have also avoided such an issue by pairing David Croft with Martin.

[wedge]

Oh great, now that we KERS, DRS, Pirelli tyres we now have to put up with Ben Edwards hyperventilating commentary whenever there's action!

[Stuartf12007]

Ben Edwards will make me feel like i am watching Superleague formula or a1gp on motors TV

[MAX_THRUST]

Ben Edwards was good on Eurosport doing F1 shame he did it with John Watson. He was greeat on Eurosport when he Did CART races. I think he will do a great job, and pleased he is on board with the bbc.

[Mark]

Ben Edwards was good on Eurosport doing F1 shame he did it with John Watson. He was greeat on Eurosport when he Did CART races. I think he will do a great job, and pleased he is on board with the bbc.

Yes, I most remember Ben Edwards when he did CART commentary on Eurosport in the late 1990's. The days when CART was a big deal!

[The Black Knight]

Ben Edwards was good on Eurosport doing F1 shame he did it with John Watson. He was greeat on Eurosport when he Did CART races. I think he will do a great job, and pleased he is on board with the bbc.

I always really liked John Watson as a commentator. The Edwards/Watson combination on Eurosport I found to be very good. I wouldn't mind seeing that combination again if I'm honest. Apart from this years BBC commentary I still thinkt he Edwards/Watson combination was the best overall I've experienced on F1.

[Knock-on]

I spend a very agreeable evening with Ben and Jason Plato about 5 years ago. I must admit I thoroughly enjoyed listening to him and when I asked why he wasn't working in F1, there was a glint in his eye back then.

I'm delighted for Ben and his charming wife. They deserve this and I am sure Mr Edwards will be an instant success with the British public.

[wedge]

I always really liked John Watson as a commentator. The Edwards/Watson combination on Eurosport I found to be very good. I wouldn't mind seeing that combination again if I'm honest. Apart from this years BBC commentary I still thinkt he Edwards/Watson combination was the best overall I've experienced on F1.

Largely helped by Jonathan Palmer having to step up for the Beeb.

[52Paddy]

I always really liked John Watson as a commentator. The Edwards/Watson combination on Eurosport I found to be very good. I wouldn't mind seeing that combination again if I'm honest. Apart from this years BBC commentary I still thinkt he Edwards/Watson combination was the best overall I've experienced on F1.

Yeah I thought it was a good combination too.

[acescribe]

Rumour is that John Watson is being lined up by 5Live for the BBC radio coverage.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Edwards will do a good job. He is a better commentator than Allen or Legard. But I personally would have preferred Charlie Cox.

[GOODSPEED]

Edwards will do a good job. He is a better commentator than Allen or Legard. But I personally would have preferred Charlie Cox.

Cox by Name, cox by nature. the guy is a complete tail... he would actually ruin F1 for those of us watching it on the BBC. Have you ever listened to his MotoGP commentary?

[BDunnell]

Rumour is that John Watson is being lined up by 5Live for the BBC radio coverage.

Alongside whom, I wonder? Maybe this is where Legard or Allan fit back into the BBC's plans. 5 Live could do worse than Legard, to be honest, as poor as he proved on TV.

[Dave B]

Three reviews for your delectation, one available now and two to bookmark:

BBC - Jake Humphrey: Jake Humphrey's season review (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jakehumphrey/2011/11/jake_humphreys_2011_season_rev.html)


Five Live review of the year: BBC - BBC Radio 5 live Programmes - 5 live Formula 1, 2011, 2011 - Review of the Year (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b018j53h)


David Croft and the 5 live Formula 1 team look back on a season dominated by Sebastian Vettel.

Broadcasts
Sun 25 Dec 2011 21:00 BBC Radio 5 live
Tue 27 Dec 2011 05:00 BBC Radio 5 live


BBC One review of the year: BBC - BBC Sport Programmes - Formula 1, 2011, Season Review (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b018zvng)


Sat, 31 Dec 2011, 13:00 on BBC One

Jake Humphrey presents a review of the 2011 Formula 1 season, in which one driver yet again proved to be the dominant force from start to finish. Sebastian Vettel blew the grid away as he stormed to his second successive world title in his unstoppable Red Bull RB7 car. Winning five out of the first six races gave him an impregnable lead, and he cruised through the rest of the season to win the title by an enormous margin.

Enjoy them while you still can :p

[Dave B]

One rumoured name drops out of the frame for any kind of BBC role in 2012:



James Allen (http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/) Reply:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:31 am
Thanks! Yes I’ve renewed that deal with ONE HD and Ten. Looking forward to it.
Source: Fernando Alonso in the headlines as the year draws to a closeJames Allen on F1 (http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2011/12/fernando-alonso-in-the-headlines-as-the-year-draws-to-a-close/#comments) (comment #13)

[Mark]

Enjoy them while you still can :p

Expect the same "All races are on the BBC!" message we got at the end of the last race.

[Sarah]

I see Jake is writing a book

[christophulus]

One rumoured name drops out of the frame for any kind of BBC role in 2012:

Sadly not... James Allen has been confirmed as lead commentator on Five Live next year.


Jamesallenonf1 (https://twitter.com/#%21/Jamesallenonf1) James Allen



#f1 (https://twitter.com/#%21/search?q=%23f1) It's official-I'm taking on role of F1 correspondent for BBC Radio 5 Live. V happy to work with a great institution in interesting times

[acescribe]

Showbizzz for you. The BBC appeared to not give him a second look when they took over from ITV for 2009. Now they hire him.

[steveaki13]

I never minded James Allen until the Hamilton era, when he got a bit hooked up on Hamilton being the new coming of Senna.

I don't expect many fans will be that happy.

[wedge]

I never minded James Allen until the Hamilton era, when he got a bit hooked up on Hamilton being the new coming of Senna.

I don't expect many fans will be that happy.

Before that he was jizzing all over Schumi.

James Allen certainly has his favourites and unfortunately his greatest ill as a commentator is that he can't quite control himself emotionally and remember to come across as impartial.

[AndyL]

Thats the last time I listen to free practice.

I think he could be very good for free practice, where the commentary is less about telling you what's happening and more about analysis, talking about background stories etc. - the sort of thing he's very strong on. Plus there's no need to try to hype up the excitement in the way that got so annoying on ITV.

[Mark]

Since leaving ITV his blog has proven he knows more about F1 than almost anybody so will be an asset to R5.

[wedge]

Since leaving ITV his blog has proven he knows more about F1 than almost anybody so will be an asset to R5.

He was and is a journalist first and foremost which a lot of people forget about judging by the praise he gets for his website.

He left Autosport to do other media like covering Mansell's Indycar career fot ITV, ghostwriting Mansell's autobiography, covering Indycar for ESPN & Eurosport, back to ITV for F1 and within that a couple of books on Schumi.

[philipbain]

I think James Allen on Radio 5 will work well, I personally thought that we was an excellent pitlane reporter and as many have said, is tremendously knowledgable about F1, he just wasnt the right person to replace Murray Walker as lead TV commentator, though how exactly you go about replacing Murray Walker is another topic altogether! I think radio commentary will suit his style, just as it suited Jonathan Legard's style much better than TV did.

[Andrewmcm]

Yeah, give the man a chance, he hasn't even uttered a word in his new job yet.

[djparky]

Before that he was jizzing all over Schumi.

James Allen certainly has his favourites and unfortunately his greatest ill as a commentator is that he can't quite control himself emotionally and remember to come across as impartial.

indeed yes he did- I recall he used to witter on endlessly about both even when they were not even in the race.

he knows his F1 but he just wasn't impartial. That said ITV's coverage was basically a Lewis-fest from the moment he arrived so not entirely to blame.

I rarely listen to R5 coverage so probably won#'t get the pleasure too often

[BDunnell]

I think he could be very good for free practice, where the commentary is less about telling you what's happening and more about analysis, talking about background stories etc. - the sort of thing he's very strong on. Plus there's no need to try to hype up the excitement in the way that got so annoying on ITV.

I agree completely.

[wedge]

Well I'll give him a chance. I do enjoy his articles on his website and he writes very well, its just his annoying excited voice turned me right off him as a commentator altogether. I'm guessing he'll have someone with him so hopefully they will drown him out a little too. As long as he stays off the main programme it shouldn't be too much of a big deal. I haven't made a massive effort to watch free practise every single race weekend in the past either as I find it quite boring after about half an hour, so on reflecting, he has quite a minor part to play really.



I think he could be very good for free practice, where the commentary is less about telling you what's happening and more about analysis, talking about background stories etc. - the sort of thing he's very strong on. Plus there's no need to try to hype up the excitement in the way that got so annoying on ITV.

FP & post-race should be more interesting and appealing.

I tend to read JA's post-FP write ups but he's been blase by his standards for most of last year yet conversely BBC's reports have gained more insight on a Friday form guide.

And I haven't listened to the podcasts since the Fan Forum. I'm guessing JA would be more analytical appeal to the enthusiast.

[Bezza]

Before that he was jizzing all over Schumi.

James Allen certainly has his favourites and unfortunately his greatest ill as a commentator is that he can't quite control himself emotionally and remember to come across as impartial.

He named his first son Enzo and is fluent in Italian so he made it quite obvious which team he prefers to all the othrs!

He is a good analyst of F1 - Radio will be good for him, however I will not be listening as I can't bear to listen to races without seeing them. Free practice is on when I'm at work.

To be fair to Allen though, I actually prefer him to David Croft - so I think it will be an improvement for BBC.

[wedge]

Gary Anderson recruited as technical analyst having worked with Irish TV/RTE.

Jenny Gow replaces Natalie Pinkham at 5Live.

BBC Sport - Formula 1: BBC announces its 2012 commentary team (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/formula_one/16516805.stm)

[jonny hurlock]

Is Gary Anderson replacing Ted (I can't spell his last name, I'm not trying too either) as technical analyst in that job? If so the Beeb are going for old Jordan Grand Prix days

[52Paddy]

Is Gary Anderson replacing Ted (I can't spell his last name, I'm not trying too either) as technical analyst in that job? If so the Beeb are going for old Jordan Grand Prix days

Gary also has recent experience on Setanta Sports coverage of F1 (before the borrowed the Beeb's commentary feed). I never thought that he had the voice for commentating but an analyst's job would suit him perfectly because he's very knowledgeable and has a wealth of experience. Looking like a very solid 2012 line-up - just hope it all clicks together well :up:

[BDunnell]

I presume there is still a co-commentator for the radio coverage to be confirmed.

[Sarah]

steve rider has given a very interesting interview about tv motorsport coverage at autosport

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVxBlEh_sKI

[AndyRAC]

steve rider has given a very interesting interview about tv motorsport coverage at autosport

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVxBlEh_sKI

He makes some very good points - sadly, his pleas will fall on deaf ears.

[wedge]

He's a bit idealistic with BBC & grassroots motorsport.

F3 is on Ch4 & Motors TV; ITV is committed to the TOCA package.

GP2 highlights arguably should have been shown.

Sports broadcasting has completely changed on the BBC. As Ryder should know, Grandstand is dead and buried and only way to for motorsport coverage brought back is something like Top Gear Motorsport - even that is now means completely different these days ie. pi55ing about in an airfield.

The other thing is Bernie is strictly F1 these days. Gone are the days when he dabbled with WSC, FIA GT, DTM/ITC.

[wedge]

James Allen's interview with Bruno Senna for 5Live

Bruno Senna Interview 5Live 1 by JA on F1 on SoundCloud - Create, record and share your sounds for free (http://soundcloud.com/ja-on-f1/bruno-senna-interview-5live-1)

[DRM Black7]

Can't wait to watch half the races lol

[christophulus]

I think they've put together a very strong line up of presenters considering several have defected to Sky. I'll have to see how I get on with delayed highlights though, not sure how I can go the whole day on Sunday without knowing the result!

[wedge]

Been looking forward to Gary Anderson but so far I'm disappointed. I've never seen the Irish/RTE coverage but Anderson so far comes across like a boring lecturer. Mike Gascoyne for instance has a bright future with TV work.

[Mark]

BBC Coverage for Australia:

Qualifying:
Sat 17th Mar 13.00 - 14.15 Highlights

Race
Sun 18th Mar 14.45 - 16.45 Highlights

[Mark]

Tonight Tuesday 6th March 10.35 BBC1

Racing with the Hamiltons;
Documentary following disabled Nic Hamilton as he embarks on a career in motor racing. Also in HD. [AD,S] Length55 mins News & Documentaries, Features

[BDunnell]

An interesting choice as James Allen's co-commentator on Radio 5 Live — Jaime Algersuari.

Jaime Alguersuari joins BBC Radio 5 Live commentary team - F1 news - AUTOSPORT.com (http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97863)

Goodness knows how this pairing will turn out.

[wedge]

Goodness knows how this pairing will turn out.

FP should be fun.

Hopefully it will be James Hunt all over again:

"and there goes that Swiss S.O.B. good for nothing who stole my seat. It should have been me, ME, ME!

[odykas]

I will miss BBC coverage a lot since it has been a great alternative to the pathetic local coverage.
Half of the races (and probably half of the team) is not enough.

[gloomyDAY]

Top notch coverage this weekend! What's the name of the little guy next to DC? Awesome commentators, brilliant production and thoroughly entertaining. I'm still not sure as to why Bernie wanted to shift over to Sky Sports, but as an American with limited coverage of F1 I always go to BBC.

[inimitablestoo]

Ben Edwards is that "little guy" :D - came over from the British Touring Car coverage, but he has previous F1 commentary experience from the dim and distant Eurosport days - 16 years ago, in fact.

Incidentally, for those who didn't see the red button forum or who didn't know already, Lee McKenzie is anchoring the show for the next two races as Jake is off at some football kickabout in Eastern Europe's equivalent of the Third Reich.

[Mark]

No Jake :s hock:. Oh well I'll watch the Jake clone on Sky instead.

[yodasarmpit]

No Jake :s hock:. Oh well I'll watch the Jake clone on Sky instead.

That's if we have a Jake clone to watch: Sky F1 presenter Simon Lazenby sparks fury with bad taste 'joke' about Princess Grace of Monaco's death | Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2150707/Sky-F1-presenter-Simon-Lazenby-sparks-fury-bad-taste-joke-Princess-Grace-Monacos-death.html)

[inimitablestoo]

Anyone seen anything about the respective viewing figures of the two broadcasters? I'd be interested to see how many people have actually bothered signing up to MurdochVision for F1.

[Mark]

It's not really about signing up 'for F1' as it's available to all HD subscribers it's just part of a range of services.

[Mark]

True for me if there is a choice of live coverage then it's BBC every time.

[AndyL]

Thats very true but there is still a percentage of F1 fans who will have signed up simply so they can watch every race live.

It was the main reason I upgraded to HD. Though in retrospect, by far the best thing about upgrading was getting Sky+.

BMW i8 | amazing ultimate car BMW i8 | super ultimate car from BMW BMW removed the veil from it's amazing ultimate vehicle i8. After initial testing the vehicle passed successfully, the decision of a series-production was quickly made. read more (http://automotorsclub.blogspot.com)
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[wedge]

Anybody spot a peeved Brundle behind the cordon of the RBR pool whilst the Beeb got preferential treatment!

[SGWilko]

It was the main reason I upgraded to HD. Though in retrospect, by far the best thing about upgrading was getting Sky+.

RE HD - I have a Freeview TV in the bedroom. However, currently, Freeview HD only gets BBC, ITV and CH4 HD - 3/4 channels at best. It only takes Ronnie Ring-ding-ding-ding on his clapped out moped drive past to pixelate the FCUK out the picture.......

The quality and range of HD content on PhoneHack+ is very good, and have had no picture issues thus far!

[Mark]

Anybody spot a peeved Brundle behind the cordon of the RBR pool whilst the Beeb got preferential treatment!

Simple audience numbers is going to make sure that BBC are always ahead of Sky.

[steveaki13]

Well the first negative for the BBC is their highlights for the Canadian GP are scheduled to be shown at 10:30pm on Sunday night. Far too late for me, and looks like I'll have to record it and watch the following day, whilst undoubtedly knowing the result. Not exactly continuing their brilliant coverage and may be the first time this season Sky get anywhere near them in terms of viewing figures. Poor indeed. :(


Haven't looked at BBC 1 & 2's schedules, but I assume this is all because of the Euro 2012 games and not being able to shuffle enough space?

Football takes precedence.

[Mark]

But isn't there a rule that the highlights must be a number of hours after the end of the live race?

[steveaki13]

But isn't there a rule that the highlights must be a number of hours after the end of the live race?



Oh right. You could be right. I have to say this season I haven't watched much on BBC as I am a creature of habit and like consistancy so have watched Sky mostly.

You would think though that the BBC could find an earlier BBC 2 slot.

Although the race finishes at what about 7:30? So thats only 3 hours. No more than the early morning races being shown at midday.

[Mark]

No the race doesn't start until 7pm, so won't be over until 8.45pm ish.

[wedge]

But isn't there a rule that the highlights must be a number of hours after the end of the live race?

Yes but for the afternoon races and compromisingly negotiable judging by Bahrain - which had a slightly earlier slot but with shorter highlights.

[IceWizard]

I'm just glad that the BBC are still showing a full two hour programme. Starting the highlights at 22:30 doesn't seem unreasonable given that the race won't finish until 20:45. Presumably it takes a bit of time to put the highlights together? If they started much earlier then there would be a danger of the race not being finished in time if there was a red flag.

[TheFamousEccles]

Be thankful you have coverage at a (semi) reasonable hour - In Oz qualifying is beng shown at 0200 (thats two in the morning!)

I realise that this is likely a time-zone thing in part, but the broadcaster who shows F1 and MotoGP in Oz is now owned by an overly wealthy bimbo with strong ties to the Murdochs, who own Foxtel (equivalent of Sky in the UK). And she has an agenda...

In fact, since Rhinardt, Murdoch and Packer bought into channel 10, things have gone backward in terms of sport broadcasting in general, and motorsport in particular. Massive conflict of interest by the owners, which is blithely ignored by those who should be regulating these things in my country. There was a new, dedicated sports channel (OneHD) that was introduced with the new digital TV channels (we're a bit slow on the uptake over here - theres got to be an apropriate amount of red tape waded through before anything gets done), that lasted just about one year, before it was re-packaged as a "lads" channel, with re-runs of ****e US sitcoms and Cops. Dissapointing is not adequate...

[52Paddy]

I don't mind having to watch the race late personally (if circumstances can't be avoided). For example, I only watched Monaco yesterday, right before the Canada qualifying session. I would have managed to avoid the result also, but my mate let it slip in work during the week. Fair enough.

If you have Setanta Ireland, the race is live from 1855 - one positive thing about living in Ireland :D

[christophulus]

Right, I'm going to go and hide in a darkened room until the BBC highlights are up. Hope it's around one hour of great racing and the rest is mindless tedium :p

[Dave B]

Sky's buildup is pretty much hit and miss, we buffer it and skip through the adverts and boring bits, but I'm still convinced that their race coverage beats the BBC's. If nothing else the picture and sound quality are in a different league, and Crofty has toned down the shouting and is at least Ben Edwards' equal right now.

[yodasarmpit]

Sky's in race coverage and commentary is every bit as good as that of the beeb, pre and post race is not too far behind either.

[acescribe]

Sky's coverage was good, although Simon Lazenby still has that "oh sh*t" look on his face that he had in Melbourne. Villenueve had the look of "who is this fool" on his face for most of the weekend - until his bald head started to finally fry in the sun that is! People are paying a premium, Sky could and should have a presenter who knows what they are doing and saying, they dont need the blind to try and lead the blind as would be the case on a free/terrestrial channel. At the start of the year I wondered what was the point in Georgie Thompson, but I have come to the conclusion that she is now well under used on a Saturday and especially Sunday.

Otherwise- and until you compare the two, you do not realise the sound difference between Sky and the BBC, it is so so much better.

And the BBC waiting to 10.30pm to show the edited highlights - that is poor. Yes there is "other" sport etc on BBC1 but BBC2/BBCHD had something on pornograohy from Louis Theroux which just about says it all I'm afriad.

[Robinho]

Sky's coverage was good, although Simon Lazenby still has that "oh sh*t" look on his face that he had in Melbourne. Villenueve had the look of "who is this fool" on his face for most of the weekend - until his bald head started to finally fry in the sun that is! People are paying a premium, Sky could and should have a presenter who knows what they are doing and saying, they dont need the blind to try and lead the blind as would be the case on a free/terrestrial channel. At the start of the year I wondered what was the point in Georgie Thompson, but I have come to the conclusion that she is now well under used on a Saturday and especially Sunday.

Otherwise- and until you compare the two, you do not realise the sound difference between Sky and the BBC, it is so so much better.

And the BBC waiting to 10.30pm to show the edited highlights - that is poor. Yes there is "other" sport etc on BBC1 but BBC2/BBCHD had something on pornograohy from Louis Theroux which just about says it all I'm afriad.

i think that would have been the earliest that BBC could show the highlights after the race, approx 2 hrs after race finish

Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2

[Robinho]

nice highlights of the race from BBC, did a decent job of the cut and kept the feel of the race

Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2

[BDunnell]

nice highlights of the race from BBC, did a decent job of the cut and kept the feel of the race

Agreed. It was a good show.

[wedge]

I thought the post-race presentation was crap with the inter-cut of graphics and, er, choice music. I thought the was like sitting in a boardroom seeing PP-assisted cheesy presentation.

They don't do it for the live show nor are they sorely missed in podcasts.

[Mark]

Really enjoyed the Canadian Grand Prix, if that was because or despite of Sky I don't know!

[Dave B]

Otherwise- and until you compare the two, you do not realise the sound difference between Sky and the BBC, it is so so much better.
The 5.1 surround on Sky is phenomenal, and almost worth paying for on its own. The BBC, having pioneered NICAM stereo and done so much to drive technical quality, have fallen behind other broadcasters: they don't even bother with 5.1 for flagship music shows such as The Voice.

[SGWilko]

I can't say I'm bothered by the supposed inferior sound on the BBC if I'm honest. I can hear the commentators fine over the faint sound of engines. I watched the Bahrain race on sky using a friend's tv, and barely noticed the difference. That might be because I wasn't looking for it of course. I watched the race on Sky yesterday and saw the first part of the highlights later on the BBC as I was trying to sleep and they didn't disappoint once again.

You'll need a home cinema system to benefit from SKY Sports F1 HD's 5.1 audio. I find all the HD channels have far superior to their non HD stream (bbc/itv/ch4 etc)

[christophulus]

BBC highlights were excellent, especially as they were only about two hours after the race. Another £30.25 saved this month :)

[SGWilko]

I'm not a huge fan of Joe Saward but his article concerning the suggestion F1 may go fully to pay per view in the UK is rather interesting with some good points IMO. I think even if you are lucky enough to have Sky, the thought of cutting the viewership down by nearly three quarters is a worry. The arrogance Bernie has shown by suggesting it is feasible is apparently worrying many in the paddock and this article sums it up in a blunt way.

Kicking animal bladders about (http://joesaward.wordpress.com/2012/06/11/kicking-animal-bladders-about/)

At the end of the day, if the sponsors loose the viewers, they will vote with their feet! If they do that, I reckon the teams will deffo then form their own series, which will allow tracks that are not asked to pay through the nose, so the public get value tickets. FTA deals made with TV co's, and sponsors come back in their droves.....

[christophulus]

Superb as usual, can't fault the coverage especially with the hour long forum afterwards. I really really hope they stick with it through to 2018 and aren't pressured to sell off their stake early.

[52Paddy]

Me too. I think if it goes off FTA, thats my hand forced and I will have to give up watching. :(

I may still have an opportunity to watch it on Setanta Sports (depending on how peoples' arms are twisted in the industry) but, regardless, I wouldn't like BBC to loose their F1 slot. The coverage is spot on and has been consistently since they took over the coverage from ITV. This has been the best F1 TV package in my twelve years of watching the sport live on ITV, RTE and BBC. It would be a shame for greed to step in and pull the plug on coverage quality I thought we'd never get.

[rjbetty]

Awww does anyone know where James Allen has gone? Has he been dropped or something?

[steveaki13]

Awww does anyone know where James Allen has gone? Has he been dropped or something?

I have wondered this on the practice session on Radio.

I would also like to know where he has gone.

[christophulus]

Strange, I thought I heard Legard's voice on the practice session Saturday morning. Allen seems to have gone along to the race anyway. I can only speculate that maybe he's lost his voice or something?

[aryan]

So this was the first race that I watched both coverage of. I have to agree, the BBC has by far the better package. The pre and post race shows are much better.

The one very sore weakness in the Beeb's lineup, in my opinion, it this Garry who does their pit wall reporting. He didn't contribute a single thing that the main commentators hadn't already mentioned, he mumbles his words and is very hard to understand when there is no background noise, and he clearly doesn't know how to yell into his mic when the cars are going around him.

Annunciation is an important skill for a TV presenter/reporter. I have no idea whose idea it was to hire him, but he should be dropped IMMEDIATELY.