There has been much speculation about the composition of the BBC's commentary and punditry team for its F1 coverage in 2012, following the defection of several high-profile figures to Sky.
Today, however, there were media reports which should give some reassurance to real F1 enthusiasts. It seems that Ben Edwards is being lined up to be the main commentator alongside David Coulthard for next season.
My main memory of Ben is of his partnership with John Watson on Eurosport's commentary team in the mid-1990s, and I gained a favourable impression. As a racing driver himself, he knew what he was talking about, but also had the ability to communicate his knowledge in a friendly, natural style. It remains to be seen, of course, whether he can establish the same chemistry with DC as he had with Wattie.
Although the loss of Martin Brundle and Ted Kravitz is a blow, it is encouraging that Jake Humphrey will stay as main presenter. I must admit that I was sceptical when Jake was first appointed, but I have been forced to eat humble pie and admit that he has done a first-rate job. From a purely personal point of view I hope also that the delightful Lee McKenzie plays an enhanced role in the coverage!
I am often critical of some aspects of the BBC, and in particular the licence fee system, but I wish them well in their efforts to maintain the high standards of their Formula 1 coverage. The portents thus far are good.
Showing posts with label sky. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sky. Show all posts
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
Friday, 29 July 2011
New Formula 1 TV deal
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....
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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