TG meets F1

Formula One coverage in the UK is returning to the Beeb.

ITV's coverage, which aired on TSN, was okay. (It's just not the same without Murray, of course.) But it looks like the BBC coverage will include plenty of Top Gear crossovers:

In a surprise move, ITV dumped Formula One after 12 years, claiming that it was not commercially viable despite the emergence of Lewis Hamilton as a British contender for the world championship.

The BBC plans a “brighter, bolder, faster” presentation, screening races live via broadband and mobile phones as well as conventional television.

[...]

Coverage will be influenced by the success of the Jeremy Clarkson-fronted Top Gear when the five-year deal begins next year. Dominic Coles, BBC director of sport rights, said: “When Lewis Hamilton did a test lap on Top Gear it got more viewers than the Brazilian Grand Prix. Bernie was very impressed with the Top Gear proposition and there will be cross-fertilisation between the show and the races.”

Clarkson and James May, Hammond’s co-conspirators, will also join in the grand prix fun but insiders believe “The Hamster” has a special affinity with drivers after his crash.

Maybe The Stig will compete in some F1 races - assuming he isn't already doing so, under a secret identity...

Damian P.

Posted by damian at March 25, 2008 12:35 PM