German Channel RTL Considers Dropping Formula 1 After 24 Years

German free-to-air TV channel RTL "is reportedly considering dropping F1 after 24 years," according to Gassmann & Reuter of the EXPRESS. The Cologne-based network "is reportedly focusing its investments on football." The broadcasts of Germany's Euro 2016 qualifiers, for which the channel paid a reported €100M ($110M), "have been highly successful." It is understood that RTL wants to expand on the success. Officially, RTL is denying such thoughts. RTL spokesperson Matthias Bolhöfer: "We have been Germany's Formula 1 channel for 24 years and always said that we would like to continue this relationship." The channel is currently in talks with F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone. However, RTL will try to renegotiate the estimated €50M ($55M) it currently pays for the rights (EXPRESS, 5/28).