Formula 1 fans will no longer have access to the popular FanVision sets during 2013 after the company in charge of the devices could not agree terms with Formula One Management.
FanVision, which originally entered F1 under the Kangaroo TV banner, had provided spectators in the grandstands with the opportunity to hire handheld screen units that broadcast television coverage of the races, as well as on-board camera footage, full commentary and statistical data.
In a statement issued on Thursday, FanVision said that efforts to sort a new deal out with FOM had failed - which left it with no choice but to leave F1.
"As you know we have, for some months, been trying to find the basis of an agreement between FanVision and FOM in order to continue providing the service in F1 in 2013," said a FanVision spokeswoman.
"Unfortunately it is now clear that we are not going to be able to agree terms with FOM and very reluctantly we have to confirm that we won't be in F1 in 2013. It's a big blow for us."
FanVision will continue to provide its services in NASCAR, NFL and golf, and it is unclear yet whether or not FOM has plans for a replacement service in F1.
