F1 Announces Record Breaking Esports Figures

Formula 1 has announced record viewing figures for the 2020 edition of its F1 Esports Series, with a total of 11.4m live stream views across all digital platforms.

The figures represent a 98% increase on 2019, as Alfa Romeo’s Jarno Opmeer secured his first F1 Esports title in December’s Grand Final event – which achieved 2.7m digital views alone, as well as 1.7m social media engagements – a record for any F1 Esports Series event. 

Overall, the Pro Series achieved 291m total social media impressions, a 151% increase on the 2019 season, while more people than ever before attempted to qualify for the 2020 season, which saw participation increase 117% to 237k. 

In addition, more than 30m people watched F1’s Virtual Grand Prix series, which saw F1 stars compete against famous faces from sport and music across eight live events that replaced the official calendar during lockdown.

Julian Tan, Head of Digital Business Initiatives & Esports at Formula 1 said:  “It is fantastic to see the F1 Esports Series 2020 break viewing and engagement records after a brilliant championship where we saw competitive racing and high drama at every event. We had to adapt in the way we operated for this year’s Pro Series due to the pandemic, but we’re thrilled to see that it didn’t affect viewers enjoyment, or consumption, of the action. 2020 was a tough year for everyone, but we look forward to bringing fans more excitement in 2021, starting with the return of the Virtual Grands Prix as we welcome back some of the faces that made it such a special experience last year, and invite some new ones too, all in the name of charity. Watch this space!”