In a major boost for motorsports fans in South Asia, the digital sports platform FanCode has significantly expanded its partnership with Formula 1. The new multi-year agreement secures exclusive broadcasting rights for the premier racing series until the end of the 2028 season.
Exclusive Rights and Enhanced Fan Experience
This renewed and expanded deal firmly establishes FanCode as the exclusive home of Formula 1 across four key South Asian markets: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The platform is committed to elevating the viewing experience by offering comprehensive coverage of every race weekend.
Subscribers will have access to both F1 TV Pro and F1 TV Premium subscriptions directly through FanCode. In a significant move for regional engagement, the platform has introduced live race commentary in Hindi and Tamil, catering to a wider Indian audience. Additionally, fans can delve deeper into the sport with a new dedicated motorsports podcast titled 'Gearbox'.
Fueling F1's Meteoric Rise in India
The partnership renewal comes at a time when Formula 1's popularity in India is accelerating at an unprecedented pace. According to data from Nielsen, the sport now boasts a staggering 79 million fans in the country, reflecting a remarkable 41% growth since 2022.
This surge is notably driven by younger demographics and a rapidly growing female viewership. The cultural impact was further highlighted by the massive success of the recent F1-themed Hollywood film starring Brad Pitt, which resonated strongly with Indian audiences.
The Road Ahead: New Teams and Tech for 2026
The extended partnership will cover a period of exciting evolution for the sport itself. The 2026 season, set to commence on March 5 in Melbourne, will introduce a wave of new changes designed to make racing more competitive and sustainable.
Key developments include the entry of Cadillac as a new constructor, expanding the grid to 22 cars. Furthermore, German automotive giant Audi will complete its takeover of the Sauber team. The new technical regulations promise lighter cars, the use of advanced sustainable fuels, and innovative active aerodynamics systems. Indian fans will also have a special connection to follow, as driver Arvid Lindbladt, who is of Indian heritage, is slated to race for the Racing Bulls team.
Leadership Perspectives on the Deal
Expressing his enthusiasm, Yannick Colaco, Co-founder of FanCode, stated, "We are delighted to renew our partnership with Formula 1 for three more years. This expanded deal firmly establishes FanCode as the home of all things F1 in India, and we're excited to keep serving one of the country's most passionate and fastest-growing sports communities."
Echoing the sentiment, Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights and Broadcasting at Formula 1, added, "We are delighted to be beginning our next chapter with FanCode after a successful start to our partnership in 2024. FanCode has elevated our broadcast for our passionate Indian audience to ensure they are able to feel the adrenaline and excitement of a race weekend from the comfort of their homes."
This strategic renewal underscores the immense value of the South Asian market for Formula 1 and positions FanCode as the definitive digital destination for millions of racing enthusiasts in the region for years to come.
