F1 2012: 10 Races the BBC Should Fight To Broadcast

The BBC has announced that a new deal had been agreed upon with Formula One Management starting from next season until 2018. The deal limits BBC's coverage to half of the season's races, as well as the practice and qualifying sessions for those races. Sky Sports, on the other hand, will show every race, qualifying session and practice live.

Predictably, this has led to outrage from fans not only in the UK but around the world, who have enjoyed BAFTA-winning coverage since the BBC bought rights to the sport in 2009. Bernie Ecclestone has defended the move, insisting the deal was "super" for Formula One.

F1 teams are expected to meet with Ecclestone to discuss the new broadcasting deal and establish whether it breaches the terms of the Concorde Agreement signed by all participating teams, which states that the sport will remain on free-to-air television.

This article will look at the 2012 Formula One calender and pick out the top 10 races the BBC should be pushing to broadcast to appease their 10 million-plus viewers.

Considered the "Jewel in the Crown" of F1 racing. The combination of narrow streets and tight corners and the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo makes for a unique event considered, by many, to be the "World's Greatest Motor Race."

It would surely be a riot if the British Broadcasting Corporation didn't show the British Grand Prix, as 2011's race was one of the best this season.

With its unpredictable weather conditions, the Malaysian Grand Prix always provides exciting racing. The early broadcast time may put the BBC off, however.

With its mix of long, fast straights and slow-speed corners, the Canadian Grand Prix provides some of the greatest overtaking opportunities in the F1 calender and provides exciting racing.

In 2005, the Canadian Grand Prix was the most watched Formula One Grand Prix in the world.

One of the oldest circuits in the F1 calender and one of the classic races. This one needs to stay free-to-view.

One of the most dangerous and challenging tracks of the F1 circuit. The Spa is a favourite circuit of many racing drivers and fans.

The home of Ferrari and the home of fast-paced, low downforce racing. A true test of a driver's skill and nerve.

One of the most challenging tracks in the world. Races at Suzuka are never without incident.

Promises to make exciting track modifications for 2012 and unique day-to-night racing provide a unrivalled spectacle.

The final race in the 2012 F1 season and one of the most unpredictable. A world champion driver and constructor will be likely to be crowned here.