Formula 1 has signed its first major post-Eccelstone era media rights deal as it agrees to a multi-year contract with France’s CANAL+, a Vivendi Group company.<\/p>\n
The deal, which extends the broadcaster’s initial 2013 agreement, will begin in March 2018 and run until 2020.<\/p>\n
CANAL+ rights include all Grand Prix events as well as Formula 2 and GP3. As a reminder, France, which enjoys a strong heritage in F1, will make a welcome return to the F1 calendar next year<\/p>\n
Beyond CANAL+ broadcast, Vivendi Group Major companies will also strive to develop transverse partnerships with Formula 1 in digital, gaming, music and entertainment.<\/p>\n
Sean Bratches, Managing Director, Commercial Operations at Formula 1 said:<\/p>\n
“We look forward to the continuation of our long-standing relationship with CANAL+ and the Vivendi Group that resets the marketplace for integrated media and marketing partnerships, which stand to support and build our respective businesses and provide value for both Formula 1 fans and CANAL+ customers.<\/p>\n
“Formula 1 fans are the big winners with the planned marketing and brand building integration opportunities, utilising Vivendi\u2019s far-reaching leadership in music, film, long and short form TV, digital and gaming.<\/p>\n
“We are pleased to have completed this deal in time for the return of the French Grand Prix to Formula 1 in 2018 and look forward to putting on a great show for our fans in France.”<\/p>\n