Actually, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings wants to keep his hands off live sports.
The successes of two documentary series are now making the entrepreneur think.
Kassel - Formula 1 inspires motorsport fans all over the world. The races regularly give TV stations good ratings. One reason for this is the tension that flares up every year due to numerous innovations. A surprising return could also be looming in the next Formula 1 racing calendar. In addition, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff recently brought a possible plan for an upcoming Formula 1 revolution into play. It is not yet clear whether the new ideas will be implemented.
But the fact is: Formula 1 is interesting for many TV companies.
The streaming service Netflix has also had good experiences with the racing series.
After the successful documentary series “Drive to Survive”, the documentary about Michael Schumacher that was published a few days ago was also well received.
Now Netflix CEO Reed Hastings is apparently considering buying the Formula 1 live rights.
However, it sends contradicting signals.
Does Netflix offer for Formula 1 live rights?
CEO is contradicting himself
Hastings explained in an interview with Spiegel: He could imagine bidding for the live rights to Formula 1 in the future.
“A few years ago the rights to Formula 1 were sold.
At that time we were not among the bidders.
Today we would think about it, ”said Hastings.
However, the Netflix CEO sends contradicting signals when it comes to live sports.
Because: At Netflix you are doing "entertainment and not journalism that should have certain standards and follow ethical principles", explains Hastings - and then says: "We also keep our hands off live sports".
Video: Netflix documentary about Michael Schumacher - That's what brother Ralf says
Successful Formula 1 documentaries make Netflix bosses think
The entrepreneur goes on to explain: “When it comes to sports broadcasts, we have no control over the source.
We don't own the Bundesliga.
She can make deals with whoever she wants.
However, this type of control would be a prerequisite for us so that we can make a secure offer to our customers ”.
But despite the actual rejection, the successes of the documentary series apparently make the bosses think about Formula 1.
Because: The motorsport premier class is one of the few sports that is popular around the globe.
It remains to be seen whether Netflix will bid for Formula 1 live rights in the future.
(Jan Wendt)
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