BBC loses rights to the Boat Race coverage for the first time in nearly a century
The BBC will have no radio or TV coverage of this year’s Boat Race for the first time in nearly a century, reports BritPanorama.
Times Radio has secured the radio rights just six months after Channel 4 obtained the television deal for three years. The shift represents a notable departure from the BBC’s long-standing association with the event, which first aired on the channel in 1938.
Under the new arrangement, Times Radio will hold the radio rights at no cost until 2028, with a requirement to promote the event. Channel 4 has committed to a five-year television contract for the historic rivalry, marking only the second occasion when commercial broadcasters have held both radio and television rights simultaneously. The previous instance occurred between 2005 and 2010.
This year’s races will take place on Saturday, April 4. Times Radio will provide live commentary for both men’s and women’s races, although the station has not yet confirmed its commentary team. Tim Levell, the programme director of Times Radio, expressed pride in partnering with the Boat Race, emphasizing its significance as a cherished tradition among listeners.
Internally, the BBC cited return on investment concerns as a key factor in its decision not to renew coverage, attributing rising production costs and declining live audiences as significant considerations. A BBC spokesperson remarked, “We are pleased the Boat Race will remain available free-to-air and wish all involved in the event every success for the future.”
As a reminder of how even deeply entrenched traditions can shift, the Boat Race’s new chapter underscores the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, reflecting broader changes in viewer habits and commercial interests.
