Rob Kamphues is making significant waves in the world of sports broadcasting as he officially leaves Ziggo Sport to join Viaplay's Formula 1 team starting January 1, 2025. This move marks the end of an era for Kamphues, who has been the face of numerous Formula 1 programs at Ziggo Sport since 2015, including the popular Ziggo Sport Race Café.
Reflecting on his time at Ziggo Sport, Kamphues commented, "After several amazing years at Ziggo Sport, it’s time for the next step. The upcoming years will be even more exciting for Formula 1, and it’s fantastic to be so close to the action with Viaplay." His anticipation about the future reflects not only personal aspirations but the overall excitement surrounding the forthcoming developments within the sport.
Kamphues, now 64, has stated his eagerness to work on new programs at Viaplay, which will largely focus on race weekends. Interestingly, he will not be taking over from Amber Brantsen, who will continue to host live broadcasts during qualifications and races. Instead, Kamphues will be presenting brand new shows on Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays—filling the gap left by Ziggo Sport’s exit from the Formula 1 broadcasting scene.
This shift not only revamps Viaplay's approach to sports programming but also integrates exciting collaborations with former driver Tom Coronel and Giedo van der Garde, adding depth and unique perspectives to the offerings. Kamphues expressed his excitement about reuniting with Coronel, mentioning, "I'm also thrilled to reunite with my race buddy Tom Coronel, to stir things up together with him and other old friends on set." The camaraderie and familiarity of past collaborations could add to the refreshing chemistry they bring to the new platform.
Marco Zwaneveld, the Head of Sports at Viaplay, shared his enthusiastic support for Kamphues' arrival. He stated, "We have worked hard over the past three years on our current Formula 1 programming. Starting 2025, we’ll begin a new chapter where Formula 1 will be exclusively available on Viaplay. The addition of Rob Kamphues brings even more experience and creativity to our team, ensuring we cater precisely to our Formula 1 fans." This statement not only underlines Kamphues' value but also highlights the efforts Viaplay has made to establish itself as the go-to destination for Formula 1 coverage.
There’s no denying the impact this transition might have on Ziggo Sport. After the departure of Robert Doornbos earlier this month, losing Kamphues adds to the challenges facing the network. Both figures have provided significant contributions to the Formula 1 programming at Ziggo, and questions loom on how the network intends to adapt to their absences. There is currently no word on who might succeed Kamphues at Ziggo Sport, but whispers of potential candidates are circulating as the channel tries to maintain its audience's engagement.
The streaming service appears to be on the rise as it prepares for exclusive Formula 1 rights, commencing 2025. Throughout the initial three years of functioning, Viaplay will continue to bolster its programming, offering various new shows besides live coverage of race weekends.
Kamphues' move to Viaplay not only refreshes his career but enhances the network's structure, signaling potential growth and broadening the reach of Formula 1 to dedicated fans. His experience and presence could change how Dutch audiences engage with the sport, adding layers of insight and entertainment to the race weekends.
With Kamphues on board, it seems Viaplay is well-prepared to cater to the fervent interests of Formula 1 aficionados, doubling down on content variety and quality. This is undoubtedly the dawn of an exhilarating new chapter for both the presenter and the network.
