Sky New Zealand and Formula 1 forge on in 2026

Motorsport fans are in for three more years of action as Sky New Zealand today announced the renewal of its partnership with Formula 1.

Sky will continue with live coverage of the FIA F1 World Championship in 2026. That includes every practice, qualifying, and race session. That includes live coverage on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now. And the Melbourne Grand Prix will also be available on Sky’s free-to-air platforms. Race highlights of all other F1 races will be offered to New Zealanders free-to-air. That ensures fans across the country can enjoy the action.

The surge in Kiwi interest thanks to the “Liam Lawson effect” has seen Formula 1 viewership on Sky increase significantly this year. Over 1.1 million fans have tuned in via Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open. And nearly half a million viewers have watched on digital platforms Sky Sport Now and Sky Go. The F1 Japanese GP drew the highest engagement so far this season due to its close proximity.

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 line-up. With rising stars like Liam Lawson, we’re proud to be bringing world-class motorsport to Kiwi screens – live, loud, and at full throttle.”

Ian Holmes is the Chief Media Rights and Broadcasting Officer at F1. He 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 motorsport coverage also includes the recently renewed Supercars partnership, IndyCar and World Superbikes.