The importance of social networks for Formula 1 and Canal+ explained by Julien Fébreau

Since the beginning of the broadcast of Formula 1 on Canal+ since 2013, as well as the acquisition of F1 by Liberty Media, many aspects of this sport have changed in order to better correspond to the current times. Since 2018, social networks have played a significant role in the communication of Formula 1. Instagram and Twitter pages, a YouTube channel, and now a TikTok account. The entire world of Formula 1 is increasingly embracing the digital realm. Why this choice, and what importance do these networks have?

To start, it is important to know that the Instagram page @F1 has nearly 50 million followers across all its social media platforms. The average viewership of a Formula 1 Grand Prix was 70 million viewers in 2021, with a peak during the last Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, where over 100 million fans tuned in. This means that more than half of the viewers also follow Formula 1 outside of the track.

A huge market share of Formula 1 is potentially nurtured through this strong presence on social media. Therefore, there is a great interest for Formula 1 to develop its digital side. With an increasingly important audience share among young people, Formula 1 uses its networks to better adapt to its audience. This means being able to engage with different age groups and enthusiasts. For me, it allows me to have a vision of what people expect and love about F1, explains Julien Fébreau, journalist and commentator for Canal+.

Similarly for television channels that broadcast this sport, Fébreau continues: « I wanted, and we want at Canal+ to be able to develop the digital aspect and offer people who follow us on Formula 1 and our subscribers an extension of what they can experience on weekends on Canal’s channels, it’s to offer them an extension on digital platforms like Tik Tok, Facebook, Twitter, and Twitch. I find it very beneficial to expand our scope, we are reaching a larger audience and I think it’s a great thing. » His Instagram account @julien_f1 has over « 120,000 subscribers » and his Twitter account is approaching « 200,000 followers ». As for Canal+, they have over 700,000 subscribers on their two accounts « @canalplus » and « @canalplussport. »

Are social networks really indispensable?

Julien Fébreau explains to us that we must not be mistaken because social networks are an added bonus and do not define Formula 1. Formula 1 is what it is because it is extremely well treated on our channels, and it is primarily on our channels that Formula 1 exists. On average, 1.2 million people watch the Grand Prix on Canal+, but there are not 1.2 million viewers on my Twitch livestreams, far from it. We must not mistake the influence ratio. The reason Formula 1 is successful in France is because Canal+ treats it with all the attention it deserves, with a lot of human resources, a strong presence at the Grand Prix, and ample airtime on our various channels for Formula 1 – that’s what matters most. Social networks are an extension of what we do on air, it’s a plus, but the main focus remains on Canal+.

These social networks can also be sources of major problems, as demonstrated by the “Piastri Gate”. By announcing Oscar Piastri’s starting position on its social networks when nothing was official, Alpine found itself in serious trouble, potentially facing a crime of spreading fake news. Where access to press releases was previously reserved for specialized journalists, social networks radically accelerate the dissemination of information and can harm certain parties.

Moreover, Formula 1 constantly has to combat the issues of cyber harassment on its networks. These have become commonplace on the internet, and even this sport is not immune to them. Numerous hateful behaviors on social media are lamentable, and the actions implemented by Formula 1 are not effective in curbing this phenomenon.

Formula 1 adapted to the modern era.

In its everyday use, the different networks of Formula 1 and Canal+ are useful when used perfectly. In addition to the expertise of the journalists present on site, the viewer can extend their immersion and follow their favorite sport closely from wherever and whenever they want. This provides a greater proximity between the audience and the sport. The live interventions by Julien Fébreau on the networks aim to immerse the enthusiast in the heart of Formula 1, and this is extremely beneficial for everyone.

The FIA, the FOM, as well as Liberty Media are however aware of the harm that social media can cause. Formula 1 has been committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination for a long time, and its action on social media must continue in order to move towards a fairer, more open and respectful sport. The officials of the sport have discussed this struggle in a short video where each driver takes turns emphasizing the importance of this fundamental concept for a healthier sport: respect.