Movistar plus+ pulls the plug on garage tv: motor fans adrift
Motor enthusiasts across Spain are facing a dry spell this April, as Movistar Plus+ has abruptly ended its broadcast of Garage TV, a dedicated channel for all things automotive and motorsport. The shutdown, effective March 31st, 2026, leaves subscribers wondering about the future of specialized content on the platform.
A sudden departure from the grid
The move comes as a surprise, particularly given recent additions to Movistar Plus+'s channel lineup. Just days ago, the company announced the launch of a new HD channel and teased another high-definition offering on the horizon. Instead, loyal viewers are now left without Garage TV, which, until midnight on March 30th, offered a 24-hour programming schedule devoted to motorsports, from Formula 1 to motocross and everything in between. The channel, previously found on dial 83, now displays a stark “Fin de emisión” message.
What happened? The official Movistar Plus+ community forums acknowledge the situation, with moderators stating that they are currently “conducting the necessary checks” to determine the cause of the channel’s termination. While the company hasn't officially released a statement, industry insiders speculate the decision may have originated from Garage TV’s parent company, rather than Movistar Plus+ itself.
Interestingly, the channel’s online presence remains unaffected. Garage TV’s website continues to stream content, offering a lifeline for fans seeking their fix of automotive programming. However, the ripple effect is being felt across other pay-TV providers. Digi TV, Telecable, Euskaltel R, and others seem to have quietly removed Garage TV from their channel listings, suggesting a broader, potentially coordinated, shutdown.
The channel's varied programming had become a staple for dedicated fans, offering a welcome alternative to mainstream sports coverage. The abrupt exit leaves a void for those seeking in-depth analysis and live coverage of motorsport events, underscoring the ongoing shifts within the Spanish pay-TV landscape.
While Movistar Plus+ is simultaneously launching new channels—including a fixed channel with series and programs, and a new sports channel to replace Ellas Vamos—the disappearance of Garage TV highlights the precarious nature of niche programming, even for dedicated enthusiasts. The shift signals a strategic realignment, one that prioritizes broader appeal over specialized offerings, and leaves many motor fans wondering if their passion project has truly run out of fuel.