The BBC has apologised after more than 700 viewers complained that the result of the Formula One German Grand Prix qualifying was given away before the highlights were broadcast.

Sports fans tuning in to BBC1’s Wimbledon coverage at the weekend were told that Lewis Hamilton had made pole position for the German Grand Prix ahead of the qualifying footage being aired .

The corporation has received 713 complaints so far about the gaffe on Saturday that occurred during a plug for the race itself which took place the following day.

The BBC has now reminded production staff to check schedules to avoid further bungles.

The corporation said: “The reference to Lewis Hamilton having secured pole position in the Formula One German Grand Prix Qualifying earlier that day was an unfortunate error made by the Wimbledon production team.

“The intention was to promote BBC1’s coverage of the German Grand Prix final the following day but, in doing so, the team failed to realise that at that point BBC1’s highlights of the qualifying had yet to be broadcast.

“We apologise for this error and that it affected some viewers’ enjoyment of our qualifying highlights programme. BBC Sport have reminded their teams of the importance of checking transmission schedules before such promotions.”