Need to know

UK viewers can watch Sunday's British Grand Prix for free as the 2026 Formula 1 campaign heats up

Lewis Hamilton has an excellent record at his home race(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Everything you need to know about how to watch the British GP for free

1. Free-to-air: Channel 4 will broadcast the 2026 British Grand Prix live on free-to-air television this Sunday. Viewers can watch the entire race build-up from 1.30pm BST and the main event, which starts at 3pm, without needing a paid subscription.
2. Sky alternative: Sky Sports F1 will also offer its comprehensive live television coverage of the entire race weekend. This dedicated channel provides extensive pre-race analysis and post-race reactions for hardcore motorsport fans.
3. Channel 4 stream: If you prefer to stream the race, you can watch Channel 4's live broadcast for free through their official streaming platform. Simply download the Channel 4 app or visit their website to catch all the track action online.
4. Sky stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also stream the race on the go using the Sky Go application. Those without a satellite subscription can purchase a NOW Sports membership to stream the Sky Sports F1 feed directly.
5. Radio coverage: For those who want to follow along on the move, BBC Radio 5 Live will provide extensive audio commentary of Sunday's race. Listeners across the UK can tune in via traditional DAB radio, the BBC Sounds app or the BBC Sport website.
6. Current standings: In the current 2026 drivers' championship, Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli leads the pack with a commanding 171 points. Team-mate George Russell sits in second place with 131 points, while Lewis Hamilton currently holds third for Ferrari with 125.
7. Russell revival: Russell arrives at Silverstone fresh off a crucial victory at last weekend's Austrian Grand Prix. He was joined on the Spielberg podium by Red Bull's Max Verstappen in second and championship leader Antonelli in third.
8. Lewis Hamilton's history: Hamilton holds a phenomenal record at Silverstone, having won his home race an unmatched nine times during his Formula 1 career. His emotional ninth victory at the circuit back in 2024 cemented his status as a true British Grand Prix legend.
9. Lewis on the rise: In his current 2026 campaign with Ferrari, Hamilton has shown great pace, which includes a recent win at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix. He will be looking to push for another podium at Silverstone after a hard-fought fifth-place finish in Austria last time out.
10. READ MORE: Watch F1 British Grand Prix for free as millions of UK fans don't need Sky Sports to view