I awoke this morning to news of the UK F1 television deal for 2012 onwards.
Given the recent speculation about the threat hanging over the BBC's coverage, such an announcement comes as no great surprise. What is surprising, perhaps, is the nature of the deal, with the BBC retaining some of the rights to coverage.
The reaction from F1 fans has been predictably hostile and confused, and in some cases shrill and hysterical. The fact is that the BBC is under pressure to make economies, and although F1 often regards itself as the centre of the universe, the Corporation has to balance its sports commitments with other "public-service" interests and duties. They cannot please everyone.
There is little doubt that Sky's coverage of the sport will be comprehensive and technically excellent, if their treatment of such sports as football, cricket and both rugby codes is any guide. However, I do emphathise with those who, for whatever reason, will not be able to watch all of the races live.
Of course, some of us feel that cases such as this throw into sharp relief the flaws and absurdities of the "compulsory" BBC licence fee, but that is another debate....
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