Tata Communications and Formula E sign major broadcast deal

Tata Communications has had a rich legacy in motorsports, from being the official Broadcast partner and network provider for Formula 1 to having a major presence in MotoGP as well as the World Rally Championship. Now the company is moving forward with a new multi-year partnership with the FIA Formula E World Championship to become the series’ official broadcast distribution provider. This means that Tata Communications will provide the high-definition and high-resolution live feed worldwide for Formula E, so the images you get on your TV while watching a race will be from the Indian software giant. 

The deal was announced on the sidelines of the first Hyderabad E-Prix on 11 February, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact that arises from broadcast and communications. The company will aim to match Formula E’s record of having very low or net zero carbon emissions in its activities, while still providing high quality live broadcasts across the world. 

Speaking about the deal, Aarti Dabas, the Chief Media Officer of Formula E, said, “Tata Communications will play a critical part in Formula E’s live race broadcast production and distribution. With Tata Communications’ innovative technology and expertise, we will deliver an enhanced viewing experience for fans and improved service for our 40 plus broadcast partners. The seamless track connectivity provided by Tata Communications ensures that the on-track action is captured and distributed in real-time, elevating the broadcast to a whole new level. This relationship makes a positive contribution in our mission to create a more sustainable future, and further demonstrates Formula E’s technical ambition and commitment to innovation. We are excited to work with Tata Communications on this exciting journey."

This is a major step up in Indian involvement in the sport, where Mahindra Racing is a successful team while also providing powertrains to the ABT Sportsline team, and Tata-owned Jaguar is currently in the championship battle, with TCS as its title partner.