Foxtel breaches tobacco advertising rules during motorsport coverage

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has found Foxtel in breach of broadcasting laws following its coverage of the New Zealand Grand Prix on Fox Sports. The breach occurred during a broadcast on January 31, 2026, when a vintage race car prominently displayed the branding of two well-known cigarette brands.

According to the regulator, the tobacco branding appeared repeatedly throughout approximately 20 minutes of the coverage, including slow-motion replays and a close-up shot lasting roughly 40 seconds. ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood noted that while the vehicle was historic and the race was commemorative, these circumstances did not exempt Foxtel from its obligations under the Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023.

This marks the first tobacco advertising investigation conducted by the ACMA under the new 2023 Act, which does not require proof of intent to broadcast an advertisement. In response, Foxtel has committed to implementing internal guidelines, providing staff training, issuing quarterly email reminders, and updating its processes for acquiring future motorsport coverage.