Rugby Super League goes FTA in UK with Channel 4

Pete Andrews

Channel 4 has acquired the rights to the Rugby Super League.

The two-year deal will see the competition broadcast on free-to-air television for the first time in its 26 year history. 

Starting with the 2022 season, kicking off in February, Channel 4 will broadcast ten live matches each season. The remaining rights are held by Sky Sports, which will provide coverage throughout the season.

Channel 4’s 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.”

Ken Davy, Super League chairman, said: “We are delighted to be able to confirm a brand-new broadcast partnership with Channel 4. They have a great track record of showing some of the best sporting competitions. The opportunity to offer live Betfred Super League action to fans on a free-to-air platform across the whole season is fantastic and one that we hope will continue to serve our current fans, as well as attract many new fans to the sport.

“I must thank our principal broadcast partner, Sky Sports, without whose support this partnership would not have been possible.”

The Super League joins a portfolio of sports rights held by Channel 4 including live British Lions rugby, England Test cricket, and the Ireland rugby union autumn internationals.