Terrestrial TV deal for BRC after six years
Highlights of the British Rally Championship will be shown on terrestrial television in the UK for the first time in six years this season.
An hour-long programme will be shown at “prime time” on ITV4 after each of the six 2024 BRC events, alongside an end-of-year review show. Each of the highlights episodes will be repeated multiple times and be available on ITV streaming service ITVX.
This comes as part of a revamp of the series after it has struggled with tiny entries in recent years, with its calendar overhauled to focus on UK mainland events in a bid to reduce costs. The programmes will be produced by governing body Motorsport UK in partnership with Globecast, which has provided coverage of a number of sporting events.
“We are delighted to announce this groundbreaking return to mainstream television for the British Rally Championship,” said series manager Reece Tarren. “Our dedication to promoting the championship has ensured top-tier visibility for both competitors and sponsors.
“This sensational partnership with ITV4 and ITVX opens up a whole new audience for the series, allowing almost every home in the country to watch the championship drama unfold from the comfort of their sofa, captivating rally fans old and new.”
Motorsport UK CEO Hugh Chambers added: “Like many fans of rally, I recall when all the drama and excitement from the heroes of the BRC was beamed to our homes week in week out. Motorsport UK, as custodians of the BRC and rally in the UK, take seriously our obligation to promote rally as a discipline and inspire the next generation of talent into the sport.
“Working in partnership with ITV and securing prime time playout is a key part of our strategy to maximise the visibility of the BRC and create a halo for the sport in the UK.”