In an interview on CNBC’s “Money Movers” earlier today, Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang discussed what the newly announced partnership with Apple may mean for F1, as well as Apple’s possible plans for the future. Here’s what he said.
Liberty Media CEO thinks Apple will be ‘very active’ to pursue F1 global broadcast rights
Chang joined Sara Eisen for an exclusive interview earlier today, ahead of this weekend’s F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
When asked about the recently announced deal granting Apple exclusive U.S. streaming rights for the next five years, Chang pointed to the fast-evolving media landscape and the growing influence of technology on sports streaming:
“In parallel [with F1 The Movie], we ended up doing a deal with Apple on the US media rights. And the way we look at it now is, sort of the whole media landscape, and we talk about in terms of reach has just changed over time because of what technology has enabled. And now it’s not just about what happens in a one and a half hour broadcast window during a Sunday race, but being sort of always on, always present. I think that Apple, with what they can do from a technology standpoint, will really enhance the product and therefore the content, and the whole experience that I think will just continue to drive the brand and drive the awareness of the sport.”
Asked about whether he thinks Apple will try to grant global streaming rights, Chang all but confirmed that things may already be in motion:
“I think Apple will be very active. We’re in discussions with them on a multiple set of fronts. It’s still very early, and I think we view it as a very strong partnership that we could see it happening in other places. But we, you know, nothing specific right now.”
Earlier in the interview, Chang also celebrated the success of F1 The Movie, mentioning its record-breaking box office performance for both Brad Pitt and for a sports movie.
Watch the interview below:
F1 The Movie is scheduled to premiere for streaming on Apple TV on December 12, following its August launch for purchase or rental.
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