Discovery renews French Open international rights deal

Discovery has announced a five-year rights deal for the French Open.

Covering 2022-26, the multi-platform deal between Discovery and the Fédération Française de Tennis covers more than 50 territories outside of France. Eurosport has broadcast the French Open since 1989.

In addition to Eurosport, Discovery will lean on its new streaming service discovery+, starting from the upcoming 2021 tournament which will be available on the SVOD in Denmark, Finland, Italy, Norway and Sweden. 

The full list of countries covered by the new deal includes: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, the Balkan countries, the three Baltic countries, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, the UK, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and the Vatican.

Andrew Georgiou, president, Eurosport and Global Sports Rights & Sports Marketing Services, said: “Our relationship with Roland-Garros spans many years and during that time we have consistently delivered ever increasing viewership and engagement as the trusted partner of the FFT.

“Our coverage is recognised for reaching the widest audience by harnessing the greatest expertise and the most innovative technology, and by committing to a renewed long-term partnership with the FFT, we will continue to bring world-class tennis from Roland-Garros to millions of fans each year across Europe.”

Gilles Moretton, President of the FFT, said: “Our Grand Slam teaming up with Discovery, a company with such extensive reach, illustrates how Roland-Garros has stepped up its ambitions on the international stage. With this partnership, our shared aim is to offer a unique experience to all of Roland-Garros’ European fans.”