The Six Nations rugby tournament will continue to be broadcast on free-to-air television in the UK until 2029, following a new agreement between ITV and the BBC. ITV will showcase all of England's matches and ten fixtures annually, while the BBC retains rights to five matches, predominantly featuring Wales and Scotland. This deal, valued at approximately £63 million per year, aims to enhance accessibility for fans and maintain rugby's visibility. The decision has been positively received by players and executives, emphasizing the importance of free-to-air coverage for fan engagement.
The significance of these new and innovative free-to-air partnerships for the Six Nations cannot be overstated, said the competition's chief executive, Tom Harrison.
By strengthening rugby's relationships with ITV and BBC, the sport can continue to give as many fans as possible in the UK access to enjoy live coverage of the Six Nations.
I think the Six Nations should be viewed by as many people as possible, said Itoje. I grew up watching the Six Nations on free-to-air television.
It is understood that the deal is worth around 63m a year, a modest uplift on the previous arrangement, with ITV paying a slightly greater proportion than previously.
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