Recent reports that the BBC are planning to show every race in full in 2012 and beyond, but tape delayed, has been denied by Formula 1’s Bernie Ecclestone.
The BBC recently signed a deal with Sky TV to share coverage from 2012 to 2018 meaning the free-to-air broadcaster would show ten races live and in full, whilst Sky would show all 20.
There had been some confusion as to whether the BBC would show the remaining ten races later in the day as a highlight package or in full. Recent reports suggested both would happen, with the full race being shown on the Red Button three hours after the race had finished on Sky, whilst highlights would be on either BBC One or Two.
Ecclestone has however snubbed these reports, stating: “The BBC will broadcast 75 minutes of every race.”
This will mean an extended highlights package which will likely last 90 minutes, 15 of those being pre-race build-up followed by the 75 minutes of action, which, considering races have averaged 95 minutes this season, will include the majority.
The BBC refused to comment on their 2012 plans when contacted by The F1 Times, stating: “We’re not confirming any details at this stage, but will do so in due course.”