Planet Sport Group has acquired YouTube channel The F1 Word, marking a new chapter for PlanetF1.com and for Formula 1 fans alike.
The F1 Word is a well-established channel with over 128,000 subscribers and 36m video views. Founded by lifelong Formula 1 fan Sean Cullingford in 2017, the channel is an engaging, and trusted voice in the F1 fan community, providing insightful commentary, expert analysis and passion-fuelled content.
The partnership will ensure that every moment on and off the track from all 24 races is as engaging, entertaining and more accessible than ever before – welcoming more fans to the sport and delivering more dynamic content that will shape the future of F1.
Cullingford, who joins PlanetF1.com as head of YouTube as part of the acquisition, said: “I’m extremely excited to join PlanetF1, and to have the support, resources, and access that Planet Sport Group offers. I’m confident that we can take The F1 Word to the next level. I’ve always believed that video content is crucial to fostering and growing a community of sports enthusiasts, and this new partnership will help bring that vision to life.”
Mark Scott, editor of PlanetF1.com, added: “Just like the F1 teams we cover, we are always striving to innovate, improve, and unlock new potential in our coverage of the sport. Acquiring this highly popular channel, along with Sean’s extensive knowledge and expertise, marks a significant milestone in expanding our video production capabilities.
“As an FIA-accredited publication, integrating a well-established video platform into PlanetF1.com will enable us to deepen our connection with the passionate F1 fanbase. We’re committed to bringing fans closer to the action through our on-the-ground reporting and a diverse range of in-depth analysis.
“The surge in social media engagement and the rise of user-generated content are reshaping how F1 is consumed and covered. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this evolution, offering fans richer, more dynamic content that reflects the future of the sport.”
As with most sports, video has become integral to fan interaction in Formula 1, and the Formula 1 fanbase is one of the most engaged in the world of sports. In 2023, a total of 10.5bn videos were watched online and on social media platforms. Official Formula 1 social media accounts have amassed more than 70m followers. PlanetF1.com’s own monthly userbase grew over 116% between 2022 and 2023.
As digital consumption of F1 continues to rise, PlanetF1.com is seeking to meet that demand head-on. The F1 Word will support PlanetF1.com’s commitment to bringing fans closer to the sport by combining PlanetF1.com’s expertise with Sean’s vast experience and passion.
