America’s Cup on free-to-air TV

The deal was brokered by a British company on behalf of Team New Zealand.

While TVNZ have the exclusive TV rights, it is understood fans will be able to access live racing via an America’s Cup app.

As part of TVNZ’S agreement, NZME’S Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport will deliver exclusive radio commentary of the event.

The extra money from the bidding war is a bonus for Team New Zealand and will help with the design and build costs of their first AC75 foiling monohull which is now under way.

The development solidifies the desire of Team New Zealand to broaden the reach of the America’s Cup after Sky TV won the rights to the last regatta in Bermuda where the Kiwis sensationally beat Oracle Team USA to win back the Auld Mug.

Team New Zealand head Grant Dalton said the idea that you couldn’t watch it unless you pay for it did not sit right with the defender.

Dalton said the philosophy was to get the product out to as many people as possible and being available on a free-to-air digital platform was key to that.

‘‘We want it to be available anywhere anytime,’’ he said. ‘‘We’re suffering a little bit that over recent Cups it hasn’t been all over the world like Kiwis would have been led to believe because it’s been pay to air and often doesn’t go anywhere.’’

TVNZ boss Kevin Kendrick hailed the return of the event to free-to-air TV and assured sports fans the broadcaster wouldn’t break to ads during live racing. ‘‘We’re going to push the boat out to make our coverage accessible to the biggest audiences so everyone feels part of the action.’’