BTCC pens new ITV dealposted in BTCC01 | 12 | 2015
A NEW FIVE-YEAR deal means the British Touring Car Championship will continue to be broadcast by ITV Sport on a free-to-air basis until at least the end of the 2021 campaign.
ITV, which began showing the BTCC in 2002, was already committed to covering the championship up until the end of '16, but has finalised a fresh extension.
The entire British Touring Car Championship race day will continue to be shown live on ITV4 HD and ITV4, including next year's annual visit to Knockhill on August 13/14.
"This is fantastic news and yet more evidence the BTCC is right at the top of its game," Alan Gow, series director, said. "Not only is this the lengthiest broadcasting contract in the BTCC's history, but it's also the longest sports contract signed by ITV4 — a real testament to the standing of the BTCC, not only in the motorsport world but also within mainstream sports broadcasting.
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"It's been a busy few months, but to have now secured our title sponsorship with Dunlop, tyre and technical supply contracts plus this unparalleled new ITV deal makes it all so worthwhile.
"And the fact that we enjoy more live free-to-air television than even F1 in the UK is testament to not only the BTCC but also the dedication and passion expressed by the ITV Sport team."
This season the ITV network screened more than 230 hours of BTCC coverage. BTCC highlights will continue to be aired on ITV4 as well, and a live stream from BTCC qualifying will be shown on Saturday afternoons.
Highlights programmes will be available to watch via the newly-launched ITV Hub.
"ITV's coverage of the BTCC for nearly 15 years has borne witness to the growth of this wonderful series," ITV director of sport Niall Sloane said.
"I'm delighted that this new deal allows us to continue our long-term partnership and bring the superb on-track entertainment provided by the BTCC free-to-air to viewers."
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Jim McGill