Eurosport Becomes PRO12’s Italian Broadcaster
Eurosport have today become a broadcast partner of the GUINNESS PRO12 after securing exclusive rights to screen the Championship in Italy and on the Eurosport Player.
Viewing figures for the GUINNESS PRO12 have increased by 25% this season and will be further boosted when Eurosport’s live coverage kicks off on Friday, November 25. Eurosport will broadcast Zebre’s visit to Ulster in round 9, a game which will be available to viewers in Italy and across 40 countries in Europe and Asia.
At least 10 home games played by either Benetton Treviso or Zebre in the PRO12 will be broadcast live from Italy on Eurosport and the Eurosport Player. In addition, Eurosport will also screen away games played by the Italian clubs.
Martin Anayi, CEO of the PRO12, welcomed the Discovery-owned broadcaster as a new partner for the 2016/17 campaign, saying: “Our new agreement with Discovery Eurosport is brilliant news for our fans in Italy and right across the GUINNESS PRO12.
“With 10 Italian home games between Zebre and Benetton Treviso to be broadcast live in HD which will be supplemented by coverage of away games, supporters in Italy will get to enjoy everything that our Championship has to offer.
“We are thrilled to partner with Discovery Eurosport, who are one of the premier broadcasters across Europe and Asia, and through the innovative Eurosport Player they are able to cater to the digital demands of the modern sport fan.
“This deal will see Italian home games available in over 40 countries in Europe and Asia and underscores the growing demand for top-class rugby union action right across the world. The PRO12 is one of the most exciting Championships in world rugby and we are looking forward to building on our new relationship with Discovery Eurosport.”
Luigi Filippo Ecuba, Senior Director Sports di Discovery, commented: “Securing the exclusive GUINNESS PRO12 rights is another sign that rugby is at the heart of what we offer to fans, helping to fuel their passion for one of Italy’s leading national sports. We are delighted to be able to offer all rugby fans another big international competition, with the atmosphere of passion and enthusiasm typical of a rugby match and the presence of two of our most symbolic clubs.”
Eurosport, the number one sports destination in Europe, brings together fans and athletes from around the biggest sporting events. Its channels Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2 reach 228 million subscribers in 93 countries in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and Middle East.
The Eurosport Player brings the most important events in the calendar to its viewers, available anytime and on any device in 52 nations. More information is available at corporate.eurosport.com.