Motorsport fans across Aotearoa are in for three more years of adrenaline-fueled action, as Sky New Zealand today announced the renewal of its partnership with Formula 1.
Starting from the 2026 season, Sky will continue to deliver live coverage of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Every F1 practice, qualifying, and race session will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now, while the Melbourne Grand Prix will also be available on Sky’s free-to-air platforms. Race highlights of all other F1 races will also be offered to New Zealanders free-to-air, ensuring fans across the country can enjoy the action.
The surge in Kiwi interest – including from the “Liam Lawson effect” – has seen Formula 1 viewership on Sky significantly increase in 2025. Over 1.1 million fans have tuned in via Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open, while nearly 470,000 viewers have watched on digital platforms Sky Sport Now and Sky Go.
The Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix 2025, despite Lawson’s tough finish, drew the highest engagement so far this season, thanks to its favourable time zone and thrilling race dynamics.
Adam Crothers, Head of Content Partnerships at Sky, shared his excitement about the renewed deal: “Formula 1 has captured the hearts of New Zealanders like never before. The passion, drama, and sheer speed of the sport make it a standout in our lineup. With rising stars like Liam Lawson inspiring a new generation of fans, we’re proud to be bringing world-class motorsport to Kiwi screens — live, loud, and at full throttle.”
Ian Holmes, Chief Media Rights and Broadcasting Officer at Formula 1, said: “Formula 1 is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Sky New Zealand. With the advent of Liam Lawson, we continue to see a surge in Kiwi supporters who are tuning in to back their hometown hero.
Together, Formula 1 and Sky will provide world-class programming and coverage across every race weekend, to ensure fans never miss a moment of the action.”
Sky’s comprehensive motorsport coverage also includes the recently renewed Supercars partnership, IndyCar and World Superbike.
Header Image: Joe Portlock/Getty Images via Red Bull Content Pool
