An update on the r/formula1 blackout

On June 12th 2023, r/formula1 and thousands of other Reddit communities went private or restricted in protest of Reddit’s announced changes to their API.

Initially we announced a 48 hour blackout, with the hopes of Reddit responding or seeking a resolution of the conflict within that timeframe.

Sadly, that has not happened.

After discussions today, the moderators of r/formula1 have decided to extend the blackout indefinitely, as we believe Reddit’s decision to effectively shut down 3rd party apps is extremely detrimental to our and thousands of other communities.

This is especially true of groups who require accessibility features to participate in our community, as well as across Reddit.

For years, Reddit has been aware of the issues that those with visual impairment face in trying to access their mobile app, yet have done nothing. Third party apps have provided a place for those users to interact in the discussions, the jokes and the communities that those of us without these impairments are privileged to access with a great deal more ease.

Once support for these third party apps is terminated, these users will not be able to participate anymore. Whilst those who use 3rd party apps for other reasons have the choice to leave Reddit or adapt to what might become the new normal, those users who rely on accessibility features won’t have that choice. They will be effectively barred from those who they might at this point call friends because a large corporation wants to make more money.

Will Reddit have these accessibility features ready to go, at a high quality, once the 3rd party support ends? We think not.

We are investigating all the options available to us, to try and find a resolution to the conflict, and once again open r/formula1 to all of you.

We will assess the situation as new developments occur, and provide updates as they do.

To the many, many people who have offered their support and encouragement: Thank you so much. It means the world to us.

We know that shutting the doors to a community that so many of you enjoy is causing frustration - and we wish it could be different. We truly believe that we must take this stand - It’s the right thing to do.

The r/formula1 mods