WRC Secures Landmark Broadcast Deal with BBC
A New Era for Rally Broadcasting in the UK
Historic Return to Terrestrial Television
Beginning in 2027, the World Rally Championship will be accessible live on the BBC, marking a monumental return to public broadcasting for the sport in the UK. This comprehensive three-year deal will ensure that fans can experience the excitement of rally racing like never before, directly through one of the nation's most trusted media outlets.
Extensive Coverage and Digital Access
Under the terms of this new agreement, the BBC will broadcast select live stages from all WRC rounds, prominently featuring the highly anticipated Power Stage. Additionally, dedicated 60-minute highlight programs will be produced for each rally, offering in-depth recaps of the week's action. A crucial component of this deal is the inclusion of digital rights, allowing audiences to stream all content via BBC iPlayer and access exclusive features across various BBC digital platforms.
A Collaborative Effort Across the Nations
This groundbreaking broadcast initiative will leverage the collective expertise of BBC Scotland, BBC Cymru Wales, and BBC Northern Ireland. This collaborative approach aims to pool resources, talent, and production capabilities from across the UK to deliver a rich and engaging viewing experience. Rhuanedd Richards, Director of BBC Nations, expressed enthusiasm for this addition to their sports portfolio, highlighting the championship's compelling stories and dramatic locations.
WRC's Enhanced Visibility in the UK Market
The announcement of this partnership follows a period where WRC broadcast rights in the UK were fragmented across multiple networks. Previously, pay-TV channel TNT Sports held live coverage rights, while ITV provided free-to-air highlights. This new agreement with the BBC consolidates coverage and provides a unified platform to reach a vast audience.
Strategic Growth for WRC Promoter
This broadcast deal represents a significant strategic move for WRC Promoter, particularly following its acquisition by French automotive company Cosmobilis and private credit investor Park Square Capital. Eric Boullier, CEO of WRC Promoter, emphasized the importance of this partnership in expanding the WRC's reach and visibility in the UK. He noted the BBC's influential position and the unique opportunity it presents to engage both long-standing fans and a new generation of rally enthusiasts.
Rally Scotland's Resurgence and New Identity
Coinciding with the BBC broadcast announcement, Rally Scotland, a key beneficiary of this new era, unveiled its refreshed logo and brand identity. This event is set to rejoin the WRC calendar for three years starting next year, bringing top-tier rally racing back to Britain for the first time since 2019. Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK, expressed excitement about Rally Scotland's new visual identity, featuring a stylized Saltire incorporating a rally car tire imprint, symbolizing its deep connection to the country and the sport.
Boosting British Motorsport and Engaging New Audiences
Chambers further highlighted that the BBC agreement provides a national stage for Rally Scotland and the wider WRC, crucial for captivating existing fans and attracting new viewers to the sport. This development is seen as a pivotal step towards establishing Rally Scotland as a major global event and significantly benefiting British motorsport as a whole.