Discovery announces YouTube deal to simulcast Olympics opening and closing ceremonies

Discovery has announced a content and advertising partnership with Google-owned YouTube for the upcoming Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

The most notable part of the deal will see the broadcaster provide live simulcast coverage of the Games’ Opening and Closing ceremonies across Europe on YouTube. Coverage of the ceremonies will be available in English and German languages. 

Other aspects of the partnership include highlights of notable events and recaps each day, along with premium on demand content including athlete interviews, athlete profiles, analysis, explainers on the sports and entertaining moments from the Games.

Scott Young, head of Sports Production and Content, Discovery Sports, said: “Discovery and Eurosport prides itself on telling the most unique and compelling stories that immerse fans in the sports and athletes they love. It is then vital we make these stories available to fans however they choose to watch, helping to engage new and different audiences with the world’s greatest sporting events.

“Working with YouTube to provide on demand Tokyo 2020 content is a great opportunity to make new connections with these audiences. It offers them new ways to find our content and be introduced to Discovery’s full Olympic Games offer. We can’t wait for the Games to start.”

Rob Pilgrim, head of Sport for YouTube in EMEA said: “The Olympic Games are so special because they are truly global. Every competing nation follows their athletes’ highs and lows so avidly, and we are delighted to have Discovery and Eurosport partner with YouTube to reach new and different audiences. Whoever you are cheering for, whatever sport you love, you will be able to catch up on all the action on the Eurosport YouTube channel.”

Discovery’s Eurosport will be the primary broadcaster of the Games, while it has branded its streaming service discovery+ as the streaming home of the Olympics in Europe.