ESPN archive deal with BBC
April 1, 2011
ESPN has agreed an archive programming deal with the BBC to show sporting events on its ESPN Classic channel. As part of a channel revamp ESPN Classic will show about 80 hours of BBC archive footage, along with unveiling its new look.
The BBC deal includes archive footage from FA Cup matches, international football, Formula One , Test cricket, international rugby, horseracing and sports documentaries.
Ross Hair, the managing director of ESPN Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “It reinforces ESPN Classic’s position as a part of the growth and vision of our business in the region and our ongoing strategy to create more continuity between the channels and brands in our portfolio.”