The BBC gets the rights back

Big change for Formula One in Britain as it emerges that the BBC has won back the television rights from ITV from next year(and for the next five years) to go along with its coverage on radio and the Internet. The word is that Bernie came to the Beeb with an offer and that ITV's bidding for the rights to the Champion's League footie is a factor in the background. No doubt too, the presence of one Lewis Hamilton will have been a big part of the decision.

There is speculation that the BBC will go in for whosesale changes in personnel and commentator James Allen could be a victim as might be Louise Goodman. On the other hand Martin Brundle is backed to make the switch and stay behind the mic. So the race is on to be the new voice of Formula One on TV in the UK - the lad Croftie(David Croft of BBC Radio Five Live) could be a contender as might his predecessor Jonathan Legard. My view on this is that Brundle has actually morphed into a pretty good commentator himself and would do a good job. I wonder if the Beeb will bring back Fleetwood Mac and the Chain....Oh, I almost forgot, this means no more ad breaks during the race. I am sure a lot of people are going to be very happy about that.

On the commentary team how about this: Brundle as commentator, Damon Hill as summariser?

If the whole subject of ITV's coverage and the annoying ad breaks is for you, have a look at Jon McKnight's campaigning site...