Digital media firm Zume is partnering with Softbank subsidiary, TV Bank Corp., to deliver the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship live and on demand to digital devices in Japan.

For the first time, Japanese consumers will be able to use F1 on Zume on their iPads and the web to follow drivers around the track in real-time, with multiple camera angles and simultaneous live video feeds. They can also access real-time race statistics, interact with other fans across social media from within the app, check out behind the scenes content, and pause, rewind and replay race footage at every stage of a race.

Users in Japan just need to download the app from the App Store, or access the same content via the web version. Many features are available for free, while live and on-demand premium content is paid for.

All remaining races in the 2013 F1 season will be available on Zume. The races will also be available on-demand for 28 days as part of the paid offering. An iPhone app and an Android app will follow later in the season.

“Today’s announcement is huge news for Japanese F1 consumers, who will be the first in the world to get their hands on F1 on Zume, allowing them to choose the cameras, the angles and the race data they want,” said Zume director, Bruce Steinberg. “They can personalise their viewing experience and become the director of their own race wherever they are. This is the first of many partnerships for Zume across multiple sports and geographies and a solid endorsement of innovative British technology.”

Zume says it is currently in discussions with multiple sports rights holders, broadcasters and mobile operators, and will announce support for further events in the coming months.