Overview
- RTL completed its takeover of Sky Deutschland on June 1, 2026, and used the deal to restore selected Formula 1 broadcasts to free-to-air TV starting with the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.
- Qualifying and the race will be simulcast on RTL, Nitro and Sky Sport this weekend, though published start times differ across outlets with reports listing qualifying at either 15:15 or 16:00 and the race at 15:00.
- Sky will lead the joint pre- and post-race production while RTL and Sky each provide separate live commentary feeds so paying subscribers still receive exclusive commentary teams.
- Reports say the contract allows RTL to show up to seven F1 races on free TV this season, with the next reported free broadcast planned for the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa on July 19, though that figure is described in coverage as reported rather than formally confirmed.
- Operational changes for the Monaco weekend include Kai Ebel as RTL's sole on-site presenter and a resolution of earlier cross-border 'spill-over' reception concerns that had previously upset neighbouring rights holders in Austria.