Horse Racing: Channel 4 lands the rights to all major events

Channel 4 will show all terrestrial racing – including the Grand National, Royal Ascot and the Epsom Derby – for “at least the next four years” from 2013, the broadcaster said in a statement.

The BBC have shown just 13 days of live racing since 2010 and have now relinquished all of their live televised interest in the sport due to reported budgetary cuts. Instead, BBC funds will be directed towards retaining events such as the Six Nations rugby union and Formula One, which they now share with Sky. Channel 4 can now add what are seen as the “crown jewels of the sport” to their schedule after winning the bidding rights to expand its current portfolio.

Jamie Aitchison, Channel 4 sports editor, said: “This is an opportunity for us to work together to grow the sport, painting the full picture of both the Flat and jumps seasons to attract new viewers whilst rewarding those loyal viewers we value so highly. Channel 4 fully understands the heritage and cultural importance of British racing, but also the sport’s thirst for a bright future, and we relish the challenge ahead.”

Richard Fitzgerald, chief executive of Racecourse Media Group (RMG), who headed Channel 4 racing’s negotiating team, added: “Channel 4 has shown a total commitment to our sport. This new deal will not only deliver increased revenues for British racing, but with all of our sport’s crown jewels in its portfolio, Channel 4 offers a compelling vision to innovate the way racing is broadcast.

“This is a great opportunity for racing in the long-term.”

The deal means British Champions Day at Ascot, the culmination of the season-long British Champions Series, will also feature on Channel 4 for the first time.