While RTL ZWEE will continue broadcasting F1 unchanged, RTL Luxembourg must tighten security on its online platform to comply with Formula 1's enhanced anti-piracy rules as an official broadcaster.

Formula 1 returns this weekend with the season opener in Australia, bringing a key change for viewers following the sport on RTL Play: a mandatory login.

Free but protected access

Luxembourg remains one of the few countries where F1 can still be watched for free. However, from this season onwards, users must log in to access the live stream and replays on RTL Play. This can be done with an RTL account or alternative logins such as LuxID, Facebook, Google, or Apple. New users can create an account on RTL.lu.

The login requirement applies only to F1 content; all other videos on RTL Play remain freely accessible. Access to F1 coverage remains free of charge.

RTL

© RTL Grafik

Streaming exclusively on RTL Play

Formula 1 content will now be available exclusively on RTL Play. While streams will still appear on RTL.lu and the RTL app, clicking on them will redirect users to RTL Play. Mobile users are advised to install or update the RTL Play app for a seamless experience.

To avoid last-minute login issues, users can test their access in advance by watching a report on Lewis Hamilton's first Ferrari test in the F1 section of RTL Play. Watch here.

Due to security constraints, RTL Play's Smart TV apps will not support F1 streaming. However, all other RTL Play content remains available as usual.

RTL ZWEE unaffected

For those watching Formula 1 via traditional TV, nothing changes. RTL ZWEE will continue broadcasting Sprint Qualifying, Sprints, Qualifying sessions, and races without login requirements. Free practice sessions for the Australian Grand Prix, all European races, and the season finale in Abu Dhabi will also be shown live.

Early start for the Australian GP

Fans will need to set their alarms early for the season opener:

  • Friday: FP1 at 2.25am, FP2 at 5.55am
  • Saturday: FP3 at 2:25am, Qualifying at 5.55am
  • Sunday: Race at 5am, with pre-race coverage from 4.30am featuring RTL F1 expert Dominique Riefstahl

Qualifying and the race will also be available as replays on RTL Play.