2.5 years of Viaplay F1: What do viewers think?
Since 2022, Viaplay has taken over the Formula 1 broadcasting rights in the Netherlands from Ziggo. Although Viaplay received a lot of criticism at the beginning, opinions are divided after 2.5 years. But what do fans really think of Viaplay’s F1 broadcasts? Let’s take a closer look at the experience, focusing on the Viaplay F1 commentators, presenters and the Viaplay F1 rights.
Viaplay’s takeover of F1 rights
Viaplay got the exclusive rights to broadcast Formula 1 in the Netherlands in 2022, replacing Ziggo Sport. This takeover caused a lot of excitement among fans, but also uncertainty. Would Viaplay be able to offer the same level of service as Ziggo Sport? More importantly, would it be worth the price?
Viaplay’s subscription price has been a point of contention for many fans. Whereas Formula 1 at Ziggo was often free or included in certain packages, at Viaplay you have to take out a separate subscription. For some, a hefty investment. So, is it worth the price? That depends on who you ask. Some fans appreciate the extensive coverage, while others feel the service leaves something to be desired, especially when it comes to streaming quality and stability.
Viaplay F1 Commentators: Do They Get the Level?
One of the biggest changes with the switch to Viaplay was the arrival of new commentators. Whereas for years we were used to the voices of Olav Mol and Jack Plooij at Ziggo Sport, Viaplay introduced an entirely new team. That took some getting used to for many fans. But how do we feel about it 2.5 years later?
By now, commentators Melroy Heemskerk and Nelson Valkenburg have become familiar faces. Yet divisions remain among fans. Some praise the calm, analytical style of Heemskerk and Valkenburg, while others miss the energy and passion of Olav Mol. A common criticism is that the new commentary sometimes comes across as somewhat “flat”. This begs the question: as a fan, what do you want to hear? Do you prefer detailed analysis, or do you prefer enthusiastic, compelling coverage?
Even with criticism, the new commentators have managed to gather a growing fan base, especially among viewers who value technical depth and objectivity. That is certainly something Viaplay is trying to provide, with less emotional outbursts and more focus on facts.
What are the Viaplay F1 Presenters like?
Besides the commentators, the Viaplay F1 presenters are also an important part of the broadcasts. Amber Brantsen, former NOS newsreader, is the face of Formula 1 broadcasts at Viaplay. Together with former drivers like Giedo van der Garde and Tom Coronel, she tries to offer interesting analysis and interviews every race. But does this work?
Fans appreciate Brantsen’s professional presentation and clear communication. She provides structure to the broadcasts, which is sometimes much needed with the chaotic nature of a race weekend. Still, some viewers miss the loose, informal atmosphere that Ziggo Sport brought. The chemistry between presenters and guests sometimes seems less spontaneous at Viaplay.
Former drivers Van der Garde and Coronel are also a source of discussion. Their experience and knowledge are often praised, but some feel their interactions could use a bit more flair and enthusiasm. It remains a balancing act between professionalism and entertainment, something Viaplay does not seem to have found the balance in after 2.5 years.
Streaming quality: can Viaplay keep up?
Besides the commentators and presenters, the technical side of the broadcasts is of course essential. Many fans in Viaplay’s early years complained about choppy streams and poor picture quality, especially during popular races like the Monaco Grand Prix or the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. But is this still a problem?
Fortunately, Viaplay has taken steps to improve quality. Many fans now report more stable connections, especially since the updates to the platform. Still, occasional complaints about buffering and lag remain. This raises an important question: Is this acceptable for a service you pay for monthly? For some fans, any interruption is a dealbreaker, while others are more lenient about it, as long as they can follow the race in the end.
What Do You and Other Fans Think?
After 2.5 years, it remains clear: opinions on Viaplay’s F1 broadcasts are divided. Some fans are happy with the in-depth analyses and professional approach, while others miss the enthusiasm and spontaneity of the old Ziggo days. And that is exactly what makes Formula 1 so special: everyone experiences it in their own way.
Some fans have switched to F1 TV and others use Grand-Prix Radio, so they can still hear Olav Mol’s commentary. But most just follow the Viaplay streams, especially now that the streaming problems have largely been fixed.
The future of F1 Rights in the Netherlands
As for the future, things remain exciting around F1 rights in the Netherlands. Viaplay currently has the exclusive broadcasting rights, but they are not guaranteed forever. The current deal runs until the end of 2024, after which other providers may be back in the race to broadcast Formula 1. Would Ziggo make a comeback? Or will an entirely new player enter the market? These kinds of questions keep many fans busy.
