The WRC Promoter aims to enhance storytelling within the championship by introducing live team radio during events. This move, inspired by successful implementations in other motorsport categories like Formula 1, seeks to engage viewers more dynamically. Currently, every stage is broadcast live through Rally.TV, audiences only hear from the crews at stage ends, leaving them in the dark about events and incidents occurring during stages.
Simon Larkin, WRC event director, emphasizes the need for a more direct approach to storytelling, suggesting integrating live interactions between crews and their teams. The goal is to bring out the personalities of the drivers and their teams in real-time, rather than relying solely on post-stage interviews. Larkin highlights the potential for more comprehensive data sharing from rally cars to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the sport’s technological aspects.
One challenge in implementing live communication from crews is the risk of divulging sensitive information to the public and rival teams. Despite this obstacle, the WRC Promoter believes that offering teams access to additional live data from the cars could incentivize them to agree to live team radio in the future.
This data could include insights into critical vehicle parameters like oil pressure, water pressure, and tire pressure monitoring, aiding teams in making informed decisions during rallies.
Peter Thul, Senior Director of Sport at WRC Promoter, indicates that teams have shown openness to the concept, although there may be limitations. The approach involves finding a balance between satisfying teams’ concerns about data confidentiality and enhancing the viewer experience through increased access to live communications. Thul suggests that while not all requests may be granted, progress can still be made toward achieving a more immersive broadcasting experience.
In summary, the WRC Promoter’s initiative to introduce live team radio aims to enrich the storytelling aspect of the championship by providing viewers with real-time insights into the actions and interactions of drivers and their teams during rallies. While challenges such as data confidentiality exist, the Promoter is optimistic about reaching agreements with teams and enhancing the overall viewing experience through increased access to live data and communication.
