Latest news with #NiallSloane
ITV News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- ITV News
FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 2027 FREE TO AIR AS ITV AND BBC SPORT CONFIRM BROADCAST DEAL
ITV and BBC Sport have secured the rights to broadcast the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027, ensuring that the biggest tournament in women's football remains free-to-air for UK audiences. Building on the successful collaboration for previous major tournaments, the partnership will bring every key moment, match, and story from the global stage to millions of fans across the UK. The tournament, consisting of 32 teams, kicks off on 24 June 2027 and will be the first Women's World Cup to take place in South America. 64 games will be played over eight host cities, with the final taking place on Sunday 25 July. ITV and BBC Sport have teamed up to share TV rights equally, ensuring the competition remains free-to-air for audiences. Games will be split across both broadcasters, with both airing the final. ITV will deliver extensive live match coverage across ITV1, ITV4 and ITVX, led by ITV Sport's stellar presenter and punditry line-up. Highlights of every match will be available for viewers on ITVX and across ITV's social channels. ITV's package of coverage includes social platforms @ITVFootball on X, Facebook and Instagram and @ITVSport on TikTok and YouTube, ensuring fans will not miss a single minute of the action. ITV will continue to be the home of the Lionesses, airing all of England's qualifying matches and friendlies on ITV1, ITV4 and ITVX ahead of the tournament. BBC Sport will deliver comprehensive live match coverage across TV and BBC iPlayer, ensuring fans can watch the big sporting moments wherever they are. In addition, BBC Sport's digital platforms will offer an unparalleled experience, with real-time clips, in-depth highlights, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes content available across the BBC Sport website, app and social media accounts (@BBCSport on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X, as well as @BBCWomensFootball on TikTok). The agreement also includes extensive live audio coverage, with every twist and turn of the tournament captured through BBC Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra, and BBC Sounds - keeping audiences connected to the action at every stage, on every platform. Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, says: 'ITV is proud to play a key role in supporting the tremendous growth of women's football in the UK. ITV Sport is the home of the Lionesses and it's vital we ensure tournaments like the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 remains free-to-air for generations of football fans to enjoy, with support of the game at an all time high. 'ITV's coverage of the Lionesses victory over Italy in the UEFA Women's EUROs 2025 Semi-Final delivered ITV's biggest peak audience of the year with 10.2 million people tuning in, highlighting the brilliant support and interest in women's football. The FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 is sure to be another standout tournament and we look forward to continuing our relationship with both FIFA and the BBC." Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, says: 'BBC Sport has been a longstanding champion of women's football, helping to elevate the game to where it is today – a sport experiencing unprecedented growth in popularity and reach across BBC Sport platforms. From domestic leagues to major international tournaments, we've brought the defining moments to millions across the UK already, including this summer's Women's Euro. Extending our partnership with FIFA alongside ITV ensures that the drama and spectacle of the Women's World Cup remains free-to-air, continuing to inspire audiences across the UK, and bring in new fans of the game.' ITV Sports rights portfolio includes the Men's FIFA World Cup 2026, UEFA Men's Euros 2028, Men's FIFA World Cup 2030, Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship, ITV Horse Racing, LIV Golf and the Carabao Cup among many other sporting highlights. BBC Sport's rights portfolio also includes FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2030, the Olympic Games, UEFA Euro 2028, Women's Rugby World Cup 2025, Wimbledon Championships, FA Cup, Women's Super League and Match of the Day (Premier League and Champions League highlights).
ITV News
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- ITV News
Extreme H and ITV Announce Multi-Year Broadcast Partnership
Pioneering hydrogen racing series Extreme H has confirmed a landmark multi-year broadcast agreement with ITV, the UK's largest commercial broadcaster. This partnership ensures fans in the UK can experience the revolutionary championship free-to-air and live across ITV4 and ITVX. Building on a successful relationship established during Extreme E, ITV has been a steadfast partner since the series' launch in 2021. This new agreement signals ITV's commitment to supporting Extreme H's cutting-edge vision as it transitions into the next chapter of zero-emission motorsport innovation. Extreme H and ITV share a profound commitment to sustainability. ITV continues to lead by example through its albert sustainable certification for all produced and commissioned programming in the UK, ensuring its shows achieve maximum audience impact with minimal environmental impact. ITV are also signatories of the Climate Content Pledge, amplifying content that inspires sustainable living and climate action. Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, said: 'ITV and Extreme H have a longstanding relationship and we are pleased to continue our partnership building on the success of Extreme E. Extreme H represents the next frontier in racing innovation and we are sure our ITV audience will enjoy all of the action free-to-air on ITV4 and ITVX.' Ali Russell, Managing Director of Extreme H, said: "It is fantastic news to be extending our broadcast partnership with ITV as we introduce Extreme H to the world. This collaboration ensures that our innovative hydrogen-powered championship, featuring a gender-equal racing format, will continue to reach UK audiences on one of the most prominent platforms. 'ITV has been a long-term and passionate supporter of our mission, and this partnership not only highlights the excitement of our racing series but also amplifies critical messages around sustainable innovation and equal gender sports. I'd like to thank Niall Sloane and the ITV team for their continued commitment, and we look forward to working together to inspire change." Driving Forward with Extreme H Catie Munnings, British rally driver, echoed this sentiment: "This partnership extension is incredible news. The series has made tremendous strides in showcasing the possibilities of sustainable motorsport, and having ITV on board ensures these achievements, and the critical issues we're racing for, reach a wide audience. 'I'm excited to continue raising awareness about sustainability and gender equality through this unique championship." With Extreme H poised to debut later this year, this partnership ensures the series' innovative racing format will inspire UK audiences while amplifying its mission for sustainability, gender equality, and hydrogen-powered innovation.
The Independent
14-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
BBC and ITV secure new Six Nations deal to keep championship on free-to-air television
The Six Nations will remain on free-to-air television in the United Kingdom after ITV and BBC agreed a new deal to show the competition through to 2029. The rights in the United Kingdom had been up for grabs at the end of the broadcasters' existing agreement, which concludes after this tournament It was feared that parts of the championship would go behind a paywall with TNT Sports declaring interest in bidding, though the subscription channel cautioned that a 'challenging' landscape would make it difficult to capture the competition. And it has now been confirmed that the terrestrial broadcasters have again struck a deal to show the men's competition over the next four years. Under the new deal, ITV will show 10 games per campaign, including all of England's matches. The BBC will show the remaining five fixtures. The current agreement had seen the BBC show all of Wales and Scotland's home games, which they will continue to do so other than when the two nations host England. The national broadcaster will continue to show every fixture from the Women's Six Nations. 'The significance of these new and innovative free to air partnerships for the Six Nations cannot be overstated,' Six Nations chief executive Tom Harrison said after an agreement that is understood to be an uplift on the previous deal. 'By strengthening rugby's relationships with ITV and the BBC, the sport can continue to give as many fans as possible in the UK access to enjoy live coverage of the Six Nations. 'These partnerships allow us to maximise audience reach whilst generating critical revenue for the game, enabling each Union and Federation to protect and grow the sport in their country in the coming years. 'The increased commitment from the free to air sector is testament to the appeal and status of our iconic Championships. The commercial environment in which rugby is operating is extremely challenging and the battle for audience attention has never been greater, but the Six Nations stands alongside the greatest occasions in world sport, which is reflected by these partnerships.' The balance between reach and revenue had been a key factor in negotiations with Six Nations bosses understanding the role the Six Nations plays in growing and sustaining the sport's audience. But at a time when many unions are seeking to improve their financial situation, the prospect of significant investment from a subscription broadcaster could well have been tempting. The continuity is good news for supporters though, with the competition staying in long-established locations. Niall Sloane, ITV's Director of Sport said: ' This is a monumental deal for rugby fans and ITV as we ensure the Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship stays on free-to-air television. We are also proud to be the home of all England matches for the duration of the deal including England's much revered clashes with Ireland, Scotland and Wales. 'The tournament is always one of the sporting highlights of the year, so we look forward to continuing to work with Six Nations Rugby and each union and federation moving forward.' Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, added: "This deal is fantastic news for rugby and the BBC, keeping the sport accessible for as many people as possible. We are proud to bring the biggest sporting moments to our audiences and this new deal is the perfect news ahead of our exclusive broadcast coverage of the Women's Rugby World Cup this summer. This is an exciting time for rugby, and we are proud to share every thrilling moment with audiences across the UK."
BBC News
14-03-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
BBC and ITV agree new four-year partnership to offer fans free-to-air live coverage of the Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship
BBC Sport and ITV have agreed a new four-year partnership for the live free-to-air rights for the Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship, which will run concurrently from 2026 to 2029. Both broadcasters will bring free-to-air coverage across TV and digital platforms until 2029 ITV will broadcast all England matches for the duration of the deal BBC retains audio commentary rights for every match on radio, BBC Sounds or online ITV will broadcast ten live matches each season including every England fixture for the duration of the deal and deliver free-to-air live coverage across ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player, plus highlights and exclusive content on ITV Sport social accounts and YouTube. BBC Sport will bring audiences live TV coverage, TV highlights and digital clips of the Men's Six Nations including five live matches involving Scotland and Wales each year, and comprehensive live coverage of the Women's Six Nations and U20 Six Nations across BBC TV Channels and iPlayer. As well as live audio commentary across multiple platforms including radio, BBC Sounds and BBC Sport website and app. Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport says: 'This is a monumental deal for rugby fans and ITV as we ensure the Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship stays on free-to-air television. We are also proud to be the home of all England matches for the duration of the deal including England's much revered clashes with Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The tournament is always one of the sporting highlights of the year, so we look forward to continuing to work with Six Nations Rugby and each union and federation moving forward.' Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport says: "This deal is fantastic news for rugby and the BBC, keeping the sport accessible for as many people as possible. We are proud to bring the biggest sporting moments to our audiences and this new deal is the perfect news ahead of our exclusive broadcast coverage of the Women's Rugby World Cup this summer. This is an exciting time for rugby, and we are proud to share every thrilling moment with audiences across the UK." Tom Harrison, CEO of Six Nations Rugby, said: 'The significance of these new and innovative free to air partnerships for the Six Nations cannot be overstated. By strengthening rugby's relationships with ITV and BBC, the sport can continue to give as many fans as possible in the UK access to enjoy live coverage of the Six Nations. These partnerships allow us to maximise audience reach whilst generating critical revenue for the game, enabling each Union and Federation to protect and grow the sport in their country in the coming years.' 'The increased commitment from the free to air sector is testament to the appeal and status of our iconic Championships. The commercial environment in which rugby is operating is extremely challenging and the battle for audience attention has never been greater, but the Six Nations stands alongside the very greatest occasions in world sport, which is reflected by these partnerships. Going into another incredible conclusion to the Men's Championship, all parties are incredibly excited to build on this momentum and audience growth, to deliver the best possible experience for fans over the next four years.' ITV Sports rights portfolio includes the Women's Euros 2025, The FA Cup, Men's Euros 2028, Men's FIFA World Cup 2026, Men's FIFA World Cup 2030, Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship, ITV Horse Racing, LIV Golf and the Carabao Cup among many other sporting highlights. BBC Sport is the home of the Women's Six Nations 2025 across linear TV and iPlayer starting later this month (22 March), along with exclusive coverage of every match of the Women's Rugby World Cup in England this summer, available live on TV, iPlayer, and the red button. BBC Sport's rights portfolio also includes the Olympic Games, The FA Cup, Men's Euro 2028, Women's Euros 2025, Men's FIFA World Cup 2026, Men's FIFA World Cup 2030, Women's Super League, Wimbledon Championships, Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 and Match of The Day (Premier League and Champions League highlights). HM4
BBC News
14-03-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
BBC & ITV agree new four-year Six Nations rights deal
BBC Sport and ITV have agreed a new four-year deal for the live free-to-air rights for the Men's Six Nations to BBC will provide live TV coverage, TV highlights and digital clips of the championship, including five live matches involving Scotland and Wales each will broadcast 10 live games each season including every England fixture for the duration of the deal, which starts in Sport will also offer live coverage of the Women's Six Nations and Under-20 Six Nations across TV and iPlayer, and continue providing live audio commentary across multiple platforms including radio, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app."This deal is fantastic news for rugby and the BBC, keeping the sport accessible for as many people as possible," director of BBC Sport Alex Kay-Jelski said."We are proud to bring the biggest sporting moments to our audiences and this new deal is the perfect news ahead of our exclusive broadcast coverage of the Women's Rugby World Cup this summer."This is an exciting time for rugby, and we are proud to share every thrilling moment with audiences across the UK."ITV director of sport Niall Sloane said it was a "monumental deal for rugby fans"."We are proud to be the home of all England matches for the duration of the deal including England's much revered clashes with Ireland, Scotland and Wales," he added."The tournament is always one of the sporting highlights of the year, so we look forward to continuing to work with Six Nations Rugby and each union and federation moving forward."In January, RugbyPass reported that TNT Sports were considering bidding for the rights,, external but TNT responded by saying it would be "very challenging", external to buy because of the links to free-to-air month England captain Maro Itoje called for Six Nations organisers to keep the championship on free-to-air TV, external on the grounds that rugby union needs more Nations Rugby chief executive Tom Harrison added: "The significance of these new and innovative free to air partnerships for the Six Nations cannot be overstated."By strengthening rugby's relationships with ITV and BBC, the sport can continue to give as many fans as possible in the UK access to enjoy live coverage of the Six Nations."
