Channel 4 gets live British GP and highlights deal for 2019

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British F1 fans with only free-to-air access to TV will enjoy a live broadcast of the British Grand Prix next year thanks to a new deal between Channel 4 and Sky.

Pay TV broadcaster Sky will continue to have the exclusive rights to screen live F1 races in the UK in 2019. However, a new partnership between Sky and Channel 4 will result in the latter sharing live coverage of the Silverstone event, with a highlights package covering the season's additional 20 races.

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"I'm delighted that we've been able to establish such an exciting and innovative partnership with Sky which will ensure that the British Grand Prix and highlights of the 2019 Formula 1 Championship remain available on free-to-air television for UK viewers," said Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon.

Stephen van Rooyen, Sky UK and ROI CEO, was equally delighted with the new partnership.

"Today's partnership is the start of a new era of collaboration between Sky, Channel 4 and, we hope, other British broadcasters," said van Rooyen.

"Not only will this innovative partnership benefit viewers, watching via Sky or free-to-air, but it will further strengthen the ecosystem of UK broadcasters and British originated content."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.