F1 returns to CCTV in new China TV deal

Formula 1 will return to China’s predominant state broadcaster CCTV this season.

In a new multi-year deal, all qualifying sessions and races will be shown on CCTV, with over 100 hours of live coverage expected.

“We are very happy to bring back Formula 1 on CCTV,” said Formula 1 Director of Media Rights Ian Holmes.

“CCTV is the dominant broadcaster in China, with more than 1.1 billion people watching its channels each year, offering our sport an extraordinary opportunity for Formula 1 to engage with mass audiences.”

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China is regarded as an important market for Formula 1 due to its population and its current growth.

The Chinese Grand Prix has been held at the Shanghai International Circuit since 2004 and it current contract runs through 2020.

In announcing the new TV deal, it was also confirmed that Shanghai will host a multi-day fan festival in the build-up to this year’s Grand Prix.

“China is a key market for Formula 1 where we have an ambitious plan to significantly grow the fan base and deepen engagement with our sport,” said Yath Gangakumaran, Formula 1’s Director of Strategy.

“Increasing the reach of F1 through this agreement with CCTV is a crucial component of the plan.

“Alongside this, to engage more on-the-ground, we will launch F1’s first ever multi-day fan festival, taking place in Shanghai ahead of the15th edition of the Chinese Grand Prix.

“And in the coming months, there shall be more announcements related to the China growth strategy.”