F1 2024: How to Listen to Live Radio 5 Live Coverage & Schedule
The 2026 Formula 1 season is fast approaching, and British fans have multiple avenues to follow every race, practice session, and qualifying run. BBC Radio 5 Live will provide live commentary for all sessions throughout the season, with coverage also available on BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport app, and website, as well as via smart speakers.
The season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix , and BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra will be the primary radio channel for live coverage. The schedule for the Australian Grand Prix weekend is as follows:
- : First practice – on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra; Second practice – on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra
- : Third practice – on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra; Qualifying – on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra
- : Grand Prix – on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra
The broadcast team will be led by main race commentator Harry Benjamin, with Jennie Gow and Rosanna Tennant handling presenting duties. A strong lineup of co-commentators will provide expert analysis throughout the season, including 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill. He will be joined by current racing drivers Sam Bird, Alice Powell, Abbie Eaton, and Abbi Pulling, adding perspectives from those actively competing in motorsport. Former McLaren mechanic Marc Priestley will also contribute, offering insights from within the pit lane.
Beyond the live race coverage, the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast will continue to offer pre- and post-race analysis. A significant development for this season is the availability of the post-race show for every Grand Prix on both BBC iPlayer and YouTube, in addition to its existing presence on the BBC Sounds app. This expanded accessibility aims to provide fans with more comprehensive coverage and discussion following each race.
Damon Hill’s involvement extends beyond his role as a commentator. He recently appeared on the Chequered Flag podcast to review the 2025 United States Grand Prix, discussing Max Verstappen’s dominant performance in Austin. The podcast also featured insights from McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, reflecting on their pursuit of Verstappen in the championship standings. The discussion touched on whether Verstappen had become a favorite among some fans, despite his consistent success.
The BBC’s commitment to Formula 1 coverage extends to providing multiple platforms for fans to engage with the sport. Listeners can tune in via traditional radio on BBC Radio 5 Live, utilize the BBC Sounds app for on-demand listening and live streams, or access updates through the BBC Sport app and website. The availability of coverage on smart speakers further enhances accessibility for fans who prefer voice-activated listening.
For those looking to download the BBC Sounds app, it is available for both Apple devices (Apple App Store) and Android devices (Google Play Store). This ensures that fans across the United Kingdom can easily access the comprehensive Formula 1 coverage offered by the BBC throughout the 2026 season.
The combination of experienced commentary, expert analysis, and multi-platform accessibility positions the BBC as a central hub for Formula 1 fans in the UK. With a seasoned team and expanded digital offerings, the BBC aims to deliver a comprehensive and engaging experience for viewers and listeners throughout the upcoming season.