I just wish that the BBC could have sorted this out in time for the final race of the season, so that the BBC team could have a proper farewell. It's the least that production team deserved.
There's normally a review of the year programme that goes out over Christmas that would be a good opportunity for such a goodbye.
I just wish that the BBC could have sorted this out in time for the final race of the season, so that the BBC team could have a proper farewell. It's the least that production team deserved.
There's normally a review of the year programme that goes out over Christmas that would be a good opportunity for such a goodbye.
You think so ? I can't read any particular ill-will for the Beeb in his statement ?
If anything he's having a go at ITV !
Quote:-
"Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer of the Formula One group said: “I am sorry that the BBC could not comply with their contract but I am happy that we now have a broadcaster that can broadcast Formula 1® events without commercial intervals during the race."
Well don't expect the inaugural Azerbaijan race to be one of 4's live races. Royal Ascot clash with quali. Likewise the German race, clashes with the 2nd biggest Saturday afternoon flat season race at Ascot.
And Singapore won't be a live on either - Rio Paralympics.
Suspect, Channel 4 will go the other way from the BBC and frontload the live choices with the early season early morning flyaways, to avoid clashes with Saturday European qualification sessions and the gee-fees.
I presume the BBC will probably have to pay a rather large 'termination fee' as has been previously reported in the press, though I've not seen any mention of the exact amount. It's no real surprise it's leaving the BBC as I've read reports that it was costing around £40m annually, though presumably some of that was for Five Live's radio coverage.
Personally I feel moving to Channel 4 is probably better than if ITV had taken over the remainder of the contract. If I recall correctly when F1 moved from ITV to BBC most of the presenters moved across, so hopefully the same may happen this time. I guess the relatively short 3 year contract also allows them to decide whether they wish to bid for the rights beyond 2018.