Beeb stick with MotoGP commentary team
Added on Monday, January 19th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
MotoGP will only be on the BBC for British fans until 2014.
The BBC will not be recruiting commentators from Eurosport as they begin their exclusive contract to broadcast MotoGP in the UK from next season.
Despite calls from fans to sign up the popular Eurosport team of Toby Moody, Julian Ryder and Randy Mamola, the Corporation has decided to stick with its current team of presenter Suzi Perry, commentators Charlie Cox and Steve Parish with Matt Roberts remaining as pit-side reporter.
The BBC will begin a five-year deal to screen MotoGP in the UK from 2009, having previously shared the contract with British Eurosport, much to the disappointment of many who had previously enjoyed the satellite broadcaster’s coverage. MotoGP had previously been one of the jewels in the crown of Eurosport’s rights portfolio, with World Superbikes and BSB also receiving extensive coverage on the network.
But a statement from BBC Sport, confirmation came that there would be no changes to the commentary team in 2009.
“Suzi Perry will be presenting with commentary coming from Steve Parrish and Charlie Cox and pit lane reports from Matt Roberts,” it confirmed.
The BBC have also moved to assure fans that the MotoGP championship will continue to receive comprehensive coverage on the channel, although the 125cc and 250cc championships and qualifying for all classes will only be viewable by those with access to interactive services.
The statement stated that “Schedule times, channels and services will be provided for each [MotoGP] event in due course.
“The BBC Red Button will allow viewers to watch qualifying, then the 125cc and 250cc races and all the post-race reaction and interviews on MotoGP Extra.
“All the action will also be available on the BBC Sport website (UK users only) so you can watch the races if you cannot get to a TV.”
Races will also be available to view on the BBC’s iPlayer service.
