Sky is to broadcast the final pre-season test at the Circuit de Catalunya in 3D - as well as 2D - covering all four days of the teams' final outing before the season kicks off in Barcelona.

"This is a special moment for Formula 1 fans and exactly the kind of innovation and access that Sky Sports F1 promised," said Sky Sports F1 commentator, Martin Brundle. "3D will show us the real challenges of the race track with added depth and perspective. It will be a new, immersive experience for viewers and I can't wait to see what F1 action in 3D will reveal."

"This is groundbreaking," added, Sky Sports executive producer of Sky Sports F1 HD, Martin Turner. "We're as excited as the next fan to see what Formula 1 will look like in 3D. It's uncharted territory, but this is a big opportunity to experiment and innovate, and we're grateful to Formula One Management for working with us on this. Sky is a world-leader in the field of 3D broadcasting, so in partnership with Formula 1 we're in the best position to answer public appetite and take up the challenge of bringing live F1 in 3D for the first time."

"It's proved a huge success with other sports," said Sky's Director of 3D John Cassy, "and now for the first time ever, 3D will bring TV viewers a new perspective on Formula 1. This cements our commitment to innovation and investment in 3D, and it's the latest first by Sky following our recent work on Galapagos with Sir David Attenborough. As the leading 3D pioneer, Sky is delighted to be able to bring this entirely new experience to Sky 3D viewers and F1 fans."

In covering the Barcelona test in 3D, Formula 1 will become the 14th sport to be broadcast in 3D by Sky.