Formula One’s virtual Grand Prix series was watched by 30 million viewers across TV and digital platforms during lockdown.
The Virtual Grand Prix races reached 21.8 million views on digital platforms alone, including the official F1 YouTube, Twitch and Facebook channels as well as Weibo and Huya channels in China. TV viewership estimates suggest the Virtual Grands Prix reached a further 5 million views through broadcast partners in over 100 countries.
The second event which took place on 5th April, titled the Virtual Vietnam Grand Prix, was the #1 trending video on YouTube UK post-event.
According to F1, social media content from the Virtual Grands Prix, gathered 695 million impressions across multiple platforms, and over 85 million views on video content throughout the series.
Alongside the main Virtual Grand Prix events, Challenge events achieved 1.9 million views across digital platforms. Pro Exhibition races, featuring the Pro F1 Esports drivers, received over 2.5m digital views.
Julian Tan, head of digital business initiatives and esports said: “Now the series has come to an end, it gives us a chance to reflect on the huge success that it has been, which is reflected in the very impressive viewing figures and engagement stats. Our aim at the start of this journey was to provide live sporting action for those craving some racing relief, and now as we and the teams, whom we are extremely grateful to for their support and commitment throughout the series, turn our focus to the 2020 season and the F1 Esports Series, we can be proud that we were able to provide such entertainment to our fans, and beyond.”
