That's quite the melodramatic headline right, because let's be honest, the craziness that is Formula E isn't going anywhere anytime soon. But, surely you knew that this post was coming? Because I, like many others, are disgruntled by the fact another motorsport series that we adore has turned to "pay to view" here in the UK.
Since the conception of the series in the early 2010's, one of the most attractive attributes of Formula E was that it was going to be readily available and accessible for everyone, with live streams of the race on Youtube, alongside live race coverage on the TV. Of course this is how it would begin. How else would they build a following? However, as with most good things, free viewing has come to an end, and with the motorsport community consistently growing in popularity - (thanks but no thanks, Netflix!), we've had yet another motor racing series ripped from our grasp, with only* a bank account standing in the way. *Techincally, nothing is standing in the way if you want to break the law with dodgy streaming sites. You didn't hear that here though. Just my melodramatics.
I can't help but think about the potential negative impacts this could have on Formula E.
Already, despite free viewing, the series has never hit a large following like other motorsport series have. Could this damage an already "mediocre" reputation even more? All you need to do is look at the comments on their social media pages to get an idea of how pissed fans already are. I am extremely intrigued, however, to find out viewing figures from the first race of the season, airing tomorrow on TNT. A channel which charges £30-odd a month. I am stingey. Or not. Maybe Formula E have decided to go down the route of money over quality.
Should I really be so negative about the paywall move? Yes, I am entitled to feel that way. But, it's only because I love this sport and I love this series. Who knows, it may work out for them. We were all so annoyed (and naive and young) when Formula One made the move to behind a pay wall back in 2012; look at them now. Thriving and rolling around in mountains of cash.
Even though I won't be watching via Formula E's new channel, I will get my Formula E fix one way or another. It'll probably have to be highlights and that makes me feel gross. It's just not the same when it isn't live. But, it is what it is and we're going to have to suck it up. Who knows, one day Formula E may just return back where it belongs. In a good way.
I just hope this isn't the beginning of the end.
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