Roku Offers Free Live Streaming of Formula E Races
Roku has recently announced its initial live sports agreement, which could be exciting for those who enjoy motorsports. The company has partnered to broadcast 11 Formula E races for no charge via The Roku Channel, starting from the upcoming season. Additionally, viewers can access on-demand content such as race previews, replays, and the “Unplugged” documentary. The channel can be accessed through Roku hardware, the internet, and specialized mobile applications.
This is definitely not exclusive. Paramount+ simulcasts five Formula E races alongside CBS. The offer is available from January 2024. Formula E media manager Aarti Dabas sees both the Roku and Paramount+ deals as a way to “dramatically increase” the series’ exposure, particularly in the United States.
This is no match for Formula 1 or other major sporting offerings. However, it does significantly expand the range of content available through Roku’s ad-supported service. The Roku Channel originally launched with a focus on older movies and shows, but has since added premium subscriptions, originals, and live TV. Now it has a chance to attract sports fans.
There is enough growth pressure. Many other streaming services have their own sports features. Amazon Prime Video streams a limited number of NFL games, while Apple has Friday Night Baseball and the MLS Season Pass. Paramount+ already has several exclusive football games. In addition, ad-supported channels are reaching more and more platforms – Amazon recently launched its own free TV for Fire devices. Formula E could maintain interest in Roku’s hardware and services, especially for viewers who crave live content.
