Sky Sports to Show F1 in 3D

Sky Sports F1 have cemented their status as Formula 1’s most innovative broadcaster by revealing they will show the final winter test of the season in 3D.

(c) Sky Sports F1

Pre-season tests rarely feature on TV, but Sky’s dedicated channel will broadcast the final test of the season in 3D, a world first that brings fans even closer to the action.

Sky 3D customers can tune in to all four days of the test, held at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona from the 28^th February to the third of March. The channel continue to take steps in giving fans the best coverage possible, currently showing features on testing like “Ted’s Testing Notebook” and reports from Sky Sports News.

Commenting on this new feature, Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle said "This is a special moment for Formula 1 fans and exactly the kind of innovation and access that Sky Sports F1 promised. 3D will show us the real challenges of the race track with added depth and perspective. It will be a new, immersive experience for viewers and I can't wait to see what F1 action in 3D will reveal."

Sky is one of the pioneers of 3D sports broadcasting, F1 will become the 14th sport shown in this format. Pre-season test coverage will be live in 3D from 2pm on the channel, with daily features like "Ted's Testing Notebook" and a programme airing at 9pm each day. There will also be live reports on Sky Sports News, and on the F1 Show.

Sky Sports F1 executive producer Martin Turner said "This is groundbreaking. We're as excited as the next fan to see what Formula 1 will look like in 3D. It's uncharted territory, but this is a big opportunity to experiment and innovate, and we're grateful to Formula One management for working with us on this. Sky is a world-leader in the field of 3D broadcasting, so in partnership with Formula 1 we're in the best position to answer the public appetite and take up the challenge of bringing live F1 in 3D for the first time."

Sky's Director of 3D John Cassy commented on the news, saying "It's proved a huge success with other sports, and now for the first time ever, 3D will bring TV viewers a new perspective on Formula 1. This cements our commitment to innovation and investment in 3D, and it's the latest first by Sky following our recent work on Galapagos with Sir David Attenborough. As the leading 3D pioneer, Sky is delighted to be able to bring this entirely new experience to Sky 3D viewers and F1 fans."

This one off is strong evidence of Sky's involvement and dedication to Formula 1. They have already revolutionised coverage of the sprot after being confirmed as the UK's F1 broadcaster for 2012. Additions like The F1 Show, Virtual Car, SkyPad and 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound has brought fans closer to one of the world's fastest and most dramatic sport.