The Welsh Rugby Union has announced a new deal with the BBC which secures the live broadcast of all Wales’ autumn international fixtures on network television up to and including 2013.
It means that the fixtures against some of the leading southern hemisphere teams will be featured on free-to-air broadcast for millions of viewers throughout the UK and beyond.
The new contract includes the current Invesco Perpetual Autumn Series for 2010 plus the games in 2012 and then 2013.
It ensures the continuation of the strong partnership with the BBC which is a key broadcast stakeholder in Welsh rugby coverage.
Welsh Rugby Union Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis, said: “I am delighted that an intense round of negotiation with our broadcast partners has resulted in this successful conclusion.
“This deal will deliver top quality coverage of our games for the Welsh public and ensure that the compelling and engaging brand of rugby played by Wales can be enjoyed by fans from across the UK.
“The contract will deliver an important financial resource into our game which will be funnelled directly into sustainability of our national sport and the pursuit of excellence throughout our international pathway structure.
“We always pursue the best broadcast opportunities for Welsh rugby but we truly value our strong relationship with the BBC which is a provider of quality output.
“The Autumn series is now a vitally important component of the Welsh rugby calendar and we have worked hard to ensure we provide top quality action in the Millennium Stadium for our fans.
“This year we welcome Australia to open the series on November 6 with fantastic games to follow against South Africa on the 13th, Fiji on the 19thand then New Zealand on the 27th.
“Of course we want as many people as possible to get tickets and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere in the Stadium, but we also want to ensure the millions of fans who don’t make it to Cardiff don’t miss a moment.”
The BBC has also concluded Autumn coverage contracts with Ireland and Scotland plus a highlights coverage deal for autumn games with the RFU.
Philip Bernie, Head of TV Sport, BBC Sport said: “We’re delighted to have renewed our partnership with the WRU, IRFU and SRU to cover their annual Autumn International fixtures live and with the RFU to show highlights of their matches. The Autumn Internationals continue to grow in intensity and importance as the Home Nations test themselves against the best of the Southern Hemisphere and take stock ahead of the forthcoming Six Nations Championship. We value the ongoing relationships we have with the Home Unions and look forward to continuing to bring top class rugby to our audiences.”
