Channel 4 to show rugby for the first time in their history

 

For the first time in their history, Channel 4 have announced that they will air Rugby League.

It is the first time since the Super League began in 1996 that It will be shown for free.
This is a monumental leap forward for Rugby League, expanding the game to viewers that otherwise may not have had the chance to view it live from the comfort of their own homes.
Channel 4 will be showing 10 live games, including two end of season play-off matches starting on February 12 with Leeds Rhinos vs Warrington Wolves at 12:30 KO seeing Daryl Powell’s first game in charge of Warrington against one of his former clubs

Channel 4 head of sport Pete Andrews said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing Super League to free-to-air television for the first time in its history.

“It’s fantastic news for rugby fans and it’s a really special addition to Channel 4’s sports portfolio particularly since it’s one of our first major partnerships since moving to our new National HQ building at the Majestic in Leeds.”

It comes on the back of a decline in Sky revenue which in turn would reduce teams income that prompted a search for an additional deal.

There won’t be highlights shown on Channel 4. However, who knows how far this budding sporting partnership could go.

Fans have taken to Twitter to show their support for the decision

@rosshardyyork saying
“Potentially a game changer for Rugby League not just Super League.
On the back of this there is RLWC2021 with BBC coverage
The Next 12 months could help shape  a bright future  for Rugby League and the next decade, don’t underestimate importance of keeping Sky involved” 
The initial contract is for two years but with the projected revenue and how well the decision has been received by fans across the UK, there is hope the partnership could extend beyond that.

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