Dazn loses grip: free f1 & motogp races return to spanish tv

For years, DAZN has reigned supreme in Spanish sports streaming, particularly dominating football and increasingly motorsports. But that dominance is facing a significant challenge: free-to-air broadcasting of Formula 1 and MotoGP races is making a comeback, courtesy of Mediaset on the TDT (Terrestrial Digital Television).

A surprise shift for motorsport fans

The move, a partnership between Mediaset and DAZN, promises a boon for Spanish fans who don’t subscribe to DAZN or other operators like Movistar Plus+. It's a surprising development, given DAZN’s exclusive rights, but one that underscores the ongoing battle for viewership and the pressure to offer wider accessibility. The small print, of course, dictates that the free broadcasts will focus on races held within Spain.

But there’s more. Movistar Plus+ is also jumping into the fray with a free plan, offering a surprising selection of content – shows, series, and even Champions League football – without requiring a subscription. While not directly related to the motorsport revival, it’s a clear signal that the streaming landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with providers scrambling to attract and retain users.

Madrid joins the f1 party & a packed calendar

Adding further excitement, Madrid is set to host a Formula 1 race later this year, introducing a brand-new circuit and adding an extra week of free F1 action. Mediaset's broadcast will cover a total of five weekends featuring both Formula 1 and MotoGP events. The schedule is already set:

Formula 1 will see action at Montmeló (June 12-14) and Madrid (September 11-13).

MotoGP will roar into Jerez (April 24-26), Montmeló (May 15-17), and Cheste (November 27-29).

Crucially, coverage will include all sessions: practices, qualifying, and the main race, ensuring fans don't miss a moment. The return of these events to the TDT isn’t just about accessibility; it’s about reclaiming a core audience who may have been priced out of the premium streaming services.

DAZN, however, isn’t sitting idly by. The platform is expected to mirror its previous strategy, offering free access to races for new users who register – a tactic proven effective in engaging a broader audience. The question now is whether this free offering will be enough to offset the impact of the TDT broadcasts and maintain its foothold in the Spanish market.

The shift represents a fascinating dynamic in the sports broadcasting landscape: a reminder that even the most dominant players can face unexpected competition, and that sometimes, the best way to reach a wider audience is to go back to basics – in this case, a return to free-to-air television.