ITV WILL screen more coverage of the TT over the next three years following a deal struck with the production company North One.
The new agreement has been negotiated by North One on behalf of the Department of Economic Development to broadcast the Isle of Man TT Races, fuelled by Monster Energy, in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
It means that 14 hours of daily highlights of the races will be shown on ITV4 throughout the festival, including preview, behind the scenes and qualifying programmes. There will also be a number of special programmes, including an exclusive look at the making of next year’s feature film TT3D.
Next year is the centenary of the mountain course, and a raft of special guests, events and celebrations are planned. Clips of all the action, coverage of the festival and the full highlights programmes will also be available on ITV.com.
ITV4 is the UK’s 10th most popular digital channel and is available to 93% of homes, free-to-air on all digital platforms including Freesat, Freeview, Sky and Virgin Media. The channel has an established reputation for broadcasting premium sport, which this year has included the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Europa League, Indian Premier League cricket and the Tour de France. Other motorsport broadcast by ITV includes the British Touring Car Championship, World Touring Cars and Motorsport UK.
Niall Sloane, ITV Controller of Sport, said, “The Isle of Man TT is a legendary sporting event, with a unique atmosphere that has always proven popular with viewers. I’m delighted that we have secured the TT on ITV4 until 2013.”
Neil Duncanson, CEO of North One Television, added, “ITV4’s real commitment to the TT was a key reason in pulling together a long term agreement. Not only will the races get prime time slots, but the marketing and promotion of the TT across the nation’s premier commercial network is extremely valuable.”
Allan Bell, Minister for Economic Development, added, “Television coverage of the TT is an important part of what we are trying to achieve for the Isle of Man’s economy, both in terms of promoting the many facets that the Isle of Man has to offer and also with regard to our commercial strategy for the races.
“I am delighted that we have been able to secure significant support from one of the UK’s leading broadcasters which is a positive reflection on the event’s strength and success.”
