Viaplay television presenter Amber Brantsen revealed during a broadcast of WNL program Goedemorgen Nederland that the network's Formula 1 commentary team faced intense backlash and death threats following the acquisition of Dutch broadcasting rights.
The Scandinavian streaming service secured the exclusive Formula 1 broadcasting rights after the 2021 season, taking over from Ziggo Sport right after Max Verstappen secured his first world championship title.
>>> Madison Keys Faces Xinyu Wang in WTA Berlin Open Round of 32
The transition involved replacing long-time commentator Olav Mol and pit reporter Jack Plooij with main commentators Nelson Valkenburg and Melroy Heemskerk, alongside pit reporter Chiel van Koldenhoven.
Brantsen detailed how the public reacted with severe hostility toward the new broadcasting crew before any content had even aired on the platform.
"Verandering is moeilijk voor de mensen," stated Brantsen regarding the initial transition phase.
The host explained that the core audience harbored significant apprehension about the changes, which quickly turned into harsh criticism directed at both the commentators and her role as a female presenter in motorsport.
"Wat moet dat meisje daar? Het feit dat ik een vrouw ben.
Dus ja, voordat er dan een seconde uitzending is een geweest, was er best wel veel kritiek, ook op onze commentatoren," said Brantsen.
While Brantsen did not feel the personal feedback crossed acceptable lines, she confirmed that the situation became dangerous for her colleague who handled the main commentary role.
>>> Liverpool Pursues Yan Diomande as Winger Prioritizes Anfield Move
