F1 Secures New Multi-Year Broadcast Deal in Australia

Formula 1 has renewed its exclusive broadcast partnership with the Foxtel Group in Australia, ensuring every session of the championship continues to air live on Kayo Sports and Fox Sports. The multi-year deal, announced just days before the 2026 season opener in Melbourne, solidifies the pay-TV and streaming platform's hold on the sport and ends speculation of a rival bid from Nine Entertainment's Stan Sport. Network 10 will retain its free-to-air rights to broadcast the Australian Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

This renewal locks in long-term broadcast stability in a key growth market for F1, guaranteeing fans uninterrupted access as the sport enters its new 2026 regulatory era. It also reinforces the current media landscape, where premium live sport remains a cornerstone of subscription streaming services like Kayo, fending off potential fragmentation from new competitors.

The details:

• The agreement covers every practice, qualifying session, and Grand Prix live and ad-break free, with coverage available in 4K resolution.
• It extends the suite of broadcast features introduced in recent years, including the popular F1 Minis (condensed race edits), expanded live data feeds, and the integration of the F1 TV app on Foxtel set-top boxes.
• The deal follows reported interest from Nine Entertainment, whose CEO Matt Stanton had publicly confirmed the company was exploring a bid for the rights as the previous contract neared expiry.
• Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany stated the extension "cements our position as the premier destination for both local and international motorsport" and strengthens the connection between Australians and F1.

What's next:

With the broadcast rights secured, focus for Australian fans immediately shifts to the track for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The continuity provided by this deal means viewers will experience the new generation of cars and regulations through a familiar and enhanced broadcast product, with Kayo continuing to offer alternative commentary options like the global F1 TV feed.