UK public-service broadcaster the BBC has pledged to show about 40 extra hours of Formula One coverage on its main channels during the upcoming 2013 season after announcing plans to show practice sessions live on BBC Two.
The BBC will show live coverage of practice sessions ahead of the 10 races that it will show live on BBC One this season.
“Last year saw us rise to the challenge of bringing the action to fans through the mix of live television and highlights, delivering great programmes which were reflected in impressive audience figures,” Ben Gallop, the BBC’s head of Formula One, said. “This year sees new faces, practice on BBC Two and BBC Two HD on live race weekends and a greater sharing of talent across BBC television, radio and online.”
UK pay-television broadcaster BSkyB has live rights to all Formula One races, including practice and qualifying sessions.