It may seem as though Formula One is rapidly disappearing behind paywall after paywall around the globe, but in France, there have been small steps in the opposite direction. The Formula One Group have agreed a deal with French television channel TF1 to show four full races exclusively free-to-air, with the rest of the 2018 season continuing as highlights.

This new deal has come about thanks to the return of the French Grand Prix, with Paul Ricard set to host the race when it rejoins the calendar in 2018. France has enshrined in law that big sporting events must be free-to-air, so the French Grand Prix fits into that category.

F1 bosses have also negotiated an additional three races, and have extended the deal for three years, to ensure reliable coverage of the main event for the French fans. France and Monaco are two races that have been confirmed, whilst the remaining two are still to be decided.

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