Sky Germany gets new F1 deal - will offer four free-to-air races

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Formula 1 has agreed a new, long term exclusive deal with Sky Deutschland from 2021 that will see the subscription-based broadcaster offer four races free-to-air to German viewers.

Sky Deutschland's new four-year deal comes in the wake of the announcement yesterday of the termination at the end of this season of RTL's 30-year contract with the sport.

The new partnership between F1 and Sky will see the latter deliver full coverage of every Grand Prix weekend, from the first free practice session on Friday to the race on Sunday, including every press conference.

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Sky will also broadcast four selected races per season free for everyone and will present a 30-minute highlight show after each race on free-to-air channel Sky Sport News HD.

Furthermore, the pay TV broadcaster's deal with include Germany’s first 24/7 channel dedicated to Formula 1

"Formula 1 and Sky have enjoyed a long-standing relationship, working well together to enhance the broadcast offering by providing comprehensive coverage of the sport for our passionate fan base," commented Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights for Formula 1.

"I am delighted that our work together will continue to build and strengthen the impressive quality of Sky’s programming, as well as their digital reach."

Sky Deutschland's agreement with F1 will also involve more digital and social media content sharing across Sky’s platforms.

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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.