BeIN Sports secures F1 rights for key Asian markets

Qatar-based pay TV service beIN Sports has secured exclusive rights to the Formula 1 World Championships in 10 territories across Asia. The rights agreement begins in 2023 and runs until the conclusion of the 2025 championship which will include rights to all Grand Prix’s, Sprint Races, Qualifying and Practice sessions. 

The 10 Asian territories included in the agreement are Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.

Formula 1’s coverage on beIN Sports channels will be available on major pay TV platforms in the region, including on beIN’s live streaming app, beIN Sports Connect.

Coverage begins with the season opener, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from the Sakhir International Circuit from March 3-5. The night-time Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix takes place from the September 15-17, with the 2023 Formula One season concluding with the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from November 24-26.

Other races include the returning Qatar Grand Prix from October 6-8. The season also includes the new Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix taking place November 16-18.

Formula One joins a schedule of live sports on beIN that includes two tennis Grand Slams – the Australian Open and Roland-Garros – in 10 territories across the Asia region, covering five editions of the tournament from 2022 to 2026.

The company’s sports content for Asia includes the ATP Tour, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, LaLiga, Serie A, and Ligue 1.

Mike Kerr, nanaging director beIN Asia Pacific, said: “We are extremely excited to add Formula 1 as we continue to invest in strengthening our ever-expanding line-up of sports content for our viewers. With the rapid growth Formula 1 has experienced in recent years, we look forward to working alongside Formula 1 to broaden its fan base in our markets by bringing an unparalleled viewing experience across all screens.”

Ian Holmes, director of media rights and content creation at Formula 1, said: “Following a number of years of growing interest across Asia, we are delighted to announce this partnership with beIN SPORTS. As Formula 1 continues to attract new fans around the world, world class broadcasting is key, and this agreement will allow us to find new and innovative ways for our Asian fans to follow and engage with our sport.”