Sky and Liberty Global "considering bids for Formula One"

British Sky Broadcasting and Liberty Global have both been suggested as potential bidders for CVC's stake in Formula One, rivalling RSE Ventures which was last week revealed to be preparing its own offer.

Insiders told the Sunday Times that RSE, which is partnering Qater Sports Investments on the approach, was just one of several potential buyers in informal talks with the private equity firm.

The sale of CVC's 35.5% controlling stake in F1 is expected to earn it five times the £1.2bn it invested back in 2006.

The role of F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, who still holds a 5% stake in the business, is likely to form a key part of any agreement, the sources said.

CVC has brought Goldman Sachs on board to advise it on the sale.