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Wimbledon's BBC Reign Ends: Pay-TV to Share Finals
20 Jun
Summary
- Eurosport nears deal for 2016-2020 Wimbledon broadcast rights.
- BBC and Eurosport will simultaneously air final coverage.
- Ofcom consultation on the broadcast deal closes June 15.
Eurosport is poised to become the first commercial broadcaster to air live UK coverage of Wimbledon, with a deal for the 2016-2020 tournaments finalized with the All England Lawn Tennis Club. This agreement necessitates collaboration with the BBC and approval from broadcasting regulator Ofcom. Under the proposed terms, Eurosport will broadcast the Wimbledon finals simultaneously with the BBC. Evening highlights will also be aired by Eurosport, timed to avoid clashes with the BBC's nightly summaries.
Discovery, Eurosport's parent company, has been actively acquiring sports rights since 2014. If approved by Ofcom, this deal would grant Eurosport coverage of all four Grand Slam tennis events. The proposal is currently undergoing public consultation via Ofcom's website, with submissions accepted until June 15. A decision is expected shortly after the consultation period concludes, allowing Wimbledon's start on June 27.
