TF1 abandons the qualifications in 2011
F1 viewership has declined, the first reactions are here.
Motors Inside recently announced that TF1 is going to change its policy regarding the broadcasting of Formula 1. However, just as HD is making its appearance in the premier discipline, the channel is abandoning the live broadcast of the qualifications.
While Eurosport previously broadcast only the three free practice sessions of each Grand Prix, TF1 aired the qualifications and then the race itself. With audiences having declined in 2010, possibly in reaction to the broadcast of the World Cup during a period in which a few Grand Prix events were scheduled, the main French channel expressed doubts about the continuity of Formula 1 broadcasts in the future. However, earlier statements indicated a willingness to wait until 2012 to make any decisions, betting on the arrival of HD to bring viewers back.
But the decision was therefore brought forward, and now Eurosport will be required to watch the qualifying sessions live, while a summary will be offered at the beginning of the evening, and a delayed broadcast later in the evening.
This will therefore not please some people who don’t have Eurosport, hoping that the Grand Prix races don’t follow the same path.
