spot_img

BBC extends London Marathon agreement until 2026

The collaboration is one of the most enduring in British sport.

The BBC‘s long-running licensing agreement for the London Marathon has been extended for another five years.

The BBC, the hosting network and domestic license owner of the marathon since 1981, will proceed to televise the race from 2022 through 2026 under an arrangement with London Marathon Events.

The fresh arrangement came after Hugh Brasher, the LME’s organizing director, stated last year that the corporation was in discussions with some other terrestrial distributors and was contemplating a transition away from the BBC. The 2021 London Marathon meant the end of a three-year contract extension with the BBC, which was signed in April 2016.

This collaboration is one of the most enduring in British sport. It is the world’s largest marathon when combined with its virtual counterpart.

The London Marathon would take place on October 2, 2022, and then on April 23, 2023, it resumes to its regular schedule.

Hugh Brasher, said, “Our partnership with the BBC goes back more than 40 years and the support of the BBC has been key to the development of the London Marathon into one of the capital’s great days out that is so loved by millions.

“Together we have worked through many challenges over the years including, most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to elite-only races and the first virtual marathon in 2020 – the coverage of which was shortlisted for a BAFTA.”

Barbara Slater, Director of BBC Sport, said, “The London Marathon is an iconic event in the UK’s sporting calendar and one that we are thrilled to continue broadcasting for another five years. We look forward to showcasing the elite athletes from the race, as well as the inspiring and touching stories of the thousands of charity runners who take part each year.”

In conjunction with the London Marathon, the BBC will highlight LME’s new efforts to encourage and promote regular activity, beginning with encouraging more children throughout the UK to participate in the Mini London Marathon in 2022. Other LME activities, such as The Big Half, the London 10,000, and the Westminster Mile, will be covered by the BBC via the Red Button services or other online platforms.

Related Articles

Latest Articles