BBC secures five-year MotoGP deal

Added on Wednesday, July 9th, 2008 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments

The BBC has signed a new five-year deal for exclusive rights to screen MotoGP in the UK.

The BBC contract, which will run until the end of the 2013 season, gives the corporation exclusive rights to all MotoGP, 250 and 125 class races and qualifying events as of next season.

As part of the deal, the BBC will show all MotoGP races live on its mainstream channels with 250, 125 and all qualifying events screened live on BBCi, available to around 86% of the UK audience. Race broadcasts will also be available up to seven days after the event on BBC iPlayer.

The decision comes just two weeks after Dorna confirmed that they would not be renewing their contract with satellite broadcaster British Eurosport, a move which has angered some fans who preferred the popular commentary team or Toby Moody, Julian Ryder and Randy Mamola.

Dorna defended the decision by claiming that they wanted to focus on showcasing MotoGP via terrestrial broadcasters.

The contract now means that from next season, the BBC will have exclusive rights to both MotoGP and Formula One.

Commenting on the deal, BBC Sport’s Director of Sport Rights, Dominic Coles said: “We are delighted to have secured, for the first time, fully exclusive rights to the world’s premier, and most watched motorbike competition.

“Alongside our recent acquisition of Formula One, BBC Sport has become the home of motorsport in the UK; a one-stop shop for fans of the very best two wheel and four wheel, adrenalin-fuelled sport action across TV, radio and online services.

“With James Toseland making a very promising start to his MotoGP career, Bradley Smith shining in the 125s, and Scott Redding making history in that series recently at Donington Park, the future for British riders in MotoGP looks good, and the BBC will be there all the way to tell their story.”

Manel Arroyo, Dorna’s Managing Director remarked: “Dorna is delighted to extend its collaboration with the BBC, and thanks to their prestige and their dedication to MotoGP, we are sure that the Championship will continue to grow in the UK.

“We are also happy that fans will not miss out and can continue to enjoy all races and qualifying sessions in the future.”

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