Sky New Zealand Extends Formula 1 Partnership

For motorsport fans across Aotearoa, the roar of Formula 1 engines will echo through 2028, as Sky New Zealand has secured a three-year extension to its partnership with Formula 1®.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

From the 2026 season, every heart-pounding moment of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship—from practice and qualifying to the races themselves—will beam live on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now. The Melbourne Grand Prix will also light up Sky’s free-to-air platforms, while highlights of all other races will be available free-to-air on Sky Open, ensuring every Kiwi can catch the thrill.

The “Liam Lawson effect” has fueled a surge in F1 fever, with viewership soaring in 2025. Over 1.1 million fans tuned in via Sky Sport and Sky Open, while nearly 470,000 streamed the action on Sky Sport Now and Sky Go.

Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls looks on prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Italy at Autodromo Nazionale Monza on September 05, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool //

The 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, despite Lawson’s challenging finish, became the season’s most-watched race, its favorable time zone and electrifying battles drawing record engagement.

Adam Crothers, Sky’s Head of Content Partnerships, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm. “Formula 1 has ignited a passion in New Zealand like never before,” he said. “The drama, the speed, and stars like Liam Lawson are inspiring a new wave of fans. We’re thrilled to bring every second of this world-class sport to Kiwi screens—live, bold, and unmissable.”

Ian Holmes, Formula 1’s Chief Media Rights and Broadcasting Officer, echoed the sentiment. “We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Sky New Zealand,” he said. “With Liam Lawson sparking a surge in Kiwi support, we’re committed to delivering top-tier coverage so fans never miss a moment of their hometown hero or the global spectacle of F1.”

As Aotearoa gears up for more high-octane seasons, Sky’s commitment ensures that the nation’s growing legion of F1 fans will stay glued to every turn, overtake, and checkered flag.