The broadcast will also use Sky’s live coverage of the race itself before switching back to Channel 4’s team after the podium ceremony for reaction. The usual Channel 4 highlights package will still run at 5.30pm as originally scheduled.
Channel 4’s Chief Executive Alex Mahon said: “We are delighted that the whole nation will be able to watch what is set to be one of the most thrilling finales to an F1 season in living memory as Lewis strives to become the most crowned World Champion of all time.
“After bringing Test cricket to free to air television for the first time in more than a decade, and enabling millions to share the joy of Emma Raducanu’s US Open triumph, we are so pleased to be partnering with Sky to enable the widest possible audience to share this historic sporting moment.”
Sky reported that the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix last weekend brought in a record number of viewers for its F1 channel. A peak audience of 2.66m watched Hamilton battle Verstappen live as tensions almost boiled over in Jeddah.
Many more are expected to tune in on Sunday, and Verstappen fans will be able to do the same, as Ziggosport has also announced that the race will be shown on free TV in the Netherlands.
“It’s great for the people to be able to watch it,” said Verstappen. “For us it’s even more special because it’s the first time a Dutch driver has a chance of winning a championship. Hopefully, a lot of people will tune in.”
Formula 1 welcomed the extra eyeballs the deal will bring to this weekend’s live action. “We are excited that Sky will make the grand prix on Sunday available to Channel 4 viewers so everyone can tune in live for the thrilling finale to this epic season,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“We are all looking forward to Sunday and hope all the fans will be glued to their screens.”