With the 2025 Formula 1 season off to a thrilling start, Channel 4 has announced its plans to provide fans with access to the action through extended highlights and full coverage of the British Grand Prix. Kicking off with the Australian Grand Prix, which took place on March 16, fans can expect to experience exciting moments from all races, thanks to Channel 4’s free-to-air broadcasting efforts.
Channel 4 will air highlights of every race throughout the season, typically releasing them just hours after the live events. This initiative is part of their strategy to engage viewers who may not have access to Sky Sports, which holds exclusive rights for most race coverage. The highlights packages are crafted to capture the essence of each race, including the most exhilarating moments, much like the format of popular sports shows such as "Match of the Day."
Leading the charge on Channel 4's coverage is presenter Steve Jones, alongside former F1 drivers David Coulthard and Mark Webber, who have considerable experience themselves. Coulthard and Webber, who were teammates during their time at Red Bull Racing back in 2008, bring expert insights to the table. Coulthard, now retired from driving, expressed excitement about the season, emphasizing the dynamic changes this year.
“The 2025 F1 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years,” Coulthard said. “With new driver partnerships shaking up the grid and some hugely talented rookies stepping onto the scene, we’re setting up for fascinating battles across the field.” He also noted, “It’s always thrilling to see how fresh rivalries develop and how the new generation adapts to the intensity of Formula 1. I can’t wait to see who rises to the challenge and who surprises us along the way.”
The 2025 season is packed with excitement, featuring 24 races across various locations worldwide, from Australia to Europe and beyond. British fans might face early morning wake-up calls for some races located across different time zones, such as those held in Melbourne and Las Vegas. Nevertheless, highlights will be available to keep everyone up to date with all the monumental happenings.
Channel 4 holds the exclusive right to showcase the British Grand Prix weekend, scheduled for July 5 and 6, 2025. This includes full live coverage of the practice sessions and qualifying on the Saturday, leading up to the main race on Sunday. Joe Blake-Turner, Channel 4’s sports commissioner, stated the significance of their comprehensive coverage for F1 enthusiasts.
“Our expert team will deliver world-class coverage, entertaining analysis, and behind-the-scenes insights,” Blake-Turner explained. “With every race’s highlights and live coverage of the British Grand Prix weekend, Channel 4 remains the ultimate destination for F1 fans who want to experience the drama and excitement of the sport for free.”
Meanwhile, Sky Sports F1 and Main Event will continue to offer live coverage of every race throughout the season, with subscriptions starting at £22 per month. Fans can also follow race highlights on the official Formula 1 YouTube channel, which provides 10-minute highlight videos following each race, ensuring accessibility for fans who might miss the action live.
Race replays from Sky Sports F1 will follow shortly after, allowing fans to watch full coverage of races the day after they air. For those eager to catch up, this means ample opportunities to relive the drama and see how each race unfolded.
Overall, with top-notch teams and competitive storylines expected, 2025 promises to be both thrilling and tightly contested, leaving fans set for what may just be one of the most unforgettable seasons of Formula 1.