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BBC at risk of losing F1 radio rights to talkSPORT after 32 years

The BBC’s 32-year reign over Formula 1 radio rights may soon come to an end as talkSPORT enters the fray, according to a report from *The Telegraph*. The commercial broadcaster, best known for its football coverage, has been quietly exploring the possibility of acquiring the rights, marking a potential shift in how the sport is broadcast on air.

Liam Fisher, talkSPORT’s head, confirmed the company is actively assessing the opportunity, citing Formula 1’s broad appeal and its alignment with the network’s existing audience. While football remains the cornerstone of talkSPORT’s programming, Fisher emphasized the value of expanding into other sports to engage listeners beyond race weekends.

The broadcaster has already signaled its intent to secure high-profile rights, with Fisher noting that Formula 1 presents a ‘brilliant set of rights’ worth pursuing. Meanwhile, the BBC faces mounting financial pressures, including recent cuts to other major sporting events like the Boat Race and Rugby Super League, raising questions about whether it can sustain its long-standing partnership with F1.

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