F1: FanVision Pulls Plug On F1 Service

FanVision, which provided handheld TV/audio devices for Formula One fans over the past few seasons, has parted ways with F1...

Adam Cooper | http://www.speedtv.com | Posted January 10, 2013 Balen (BEL)

Bernie Ecclestone is coming under fire in the Gerhard Gribkowsky affair. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

FanVision has dropped out of F1 after failing to conclude a deal for 2013 with Bernie Ecclestone and FOM.

The company’s bespoke handheld TV/audio devices had become hugely popular with fans over the past few seasons, and were also used by media, teams, sponsors and even the FIA, all of whom took advantage of access not just to the TV and data feeds but also commentaries provided by the BBC and Sky.

“We have, for some months, been trying to find the basis of an agreement between FanVision and FOM in order to continue providing the service in F1 in 2013,” said the company’s Jade De Vere-Drummond in a letter.

“Unfortunately, it is now clear that we are not going to be able to agree to terms with FOM, and very reluctantly we have to confirm that we won't be in F1 in 2013. It’s a big blow for us.

“We achieved our best in revenue terms the past two years, and made huge progress in developing relationships and working together with promoters, press, teams and their sponsors.”

FanVision remains involved in NASCAR and other sports.

Adam Cooper notched up his 28th season as a racing journalist in 2012. He has written about F1 for SPEED.com since 2005. Follow him on Twitter.

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