Royal Ascot Broadcast Reach Expands Globally with new Media Rights Deals
The Annual Royal Ascot horse racing festival is set to reach an unprecedented global audience, securing coverage in 180 territories through 30 broadcasters. This meaningful expansion underscores the growing international appeal of the prestigious event, drawing in new viewers and solidifying its position as a premier event in the horse racing calendar.
New Broadcasters Join The royal Ascot Media rights Roster
This year’s distribution boasts five new broadcasters, extending the reach of Royal Ascot into new markets. Abu Dhabi media (Mena), Charlton (Israel), Fancode (India), Wedo Asia (Southeast Asia), and D-Smart (Turkey) are all set to provide extensive coverage, offering fans in these regions a chance to experience the excitement of Royal Ascot firsthand.
- Abu Dhabi Media (Mena): Bringing the thrill of Royal Ascot to the Middle East and North Africa.
- Charlton (Israel): Expanding the festival’s presence in the Israeli market.
- Fancode (India): Tapping into India’s growing interest in international sports.
- Wedo Asia (Southeast Asia): Delivering coverage to a diverse audience across Southeast Asia.
- D-Smart (Turkey): offering Turkish viewers access to one of the world’s most celebrated horse racing events.
Nbc Secures Exclusive Enhanced World Feed
In the United States, Nbc and its Peacock streaming service will provide exclusive coverage of Royal Ascot. For the first time, the Nbcuniversal-owned network will utilize an enhanced world feed, offering viewers a richer and more immersive experience. Nbc will also have an on-course presence, further enhancing its coverage and providing in-depth analysis from the heart of the action.
The 2025 Royal Ascot meeting kicks off tomorrow, June 17, and runs through Saturday, promising five days of world-class racing and high fashion.
Domestic Coverage Remains Strong
I Tv, the Uk commercial broadcaster, will showcase Royal Ascot for the ninth consecutive year, offering a five-hour daily programming block dedicated to the festival.Sky Sports Racing and Virgin Media will provide additional coverage in the Uk and Ireland, ensuring comprehensive access for domestic viewers.
Hba Media, the horse racing media rights agency, is offering global broadcasters a range of content packages. These include live race coverage, shoulder content, and ancillary programming such as documentaries and talk shows, providing a comprehensive viewing experience.
Global Reach Extends Across Continents
Espn will broadcast to Latin and South american audiences, with Sportsmax supplementing coverage in the Caribbean. Rogers, the Canadian telecommunications giant, will carry Royal Ascot coverage in Canada for the first time, further expanding the event’s reach in North America.
Several European broadcasters are also returning to showcase the event, including Rai (Italy), Setanta (Baltics and Eurasia), Polsat (Poland), Cyta (Cyprus), Wedotv (Germany, switzerland, and Austria), Silknet (Georgia), and Viaplay (Netherlands and Scandinavia).
Equidia, the French horse racing Tv channel, will be onsite, and Eurovision Sport will provide a broadcast window for Royal Ascot in 20 dark market territories through a partnership with Ebu. Supersport has also renewed its deal, broadcasting Royal Ascot across 52 territories in sub-Saharan Africa.
Middle East and Asia Join The Broadcast Network
Dmi and Al Kass will showcase the race in the Middle East and North Africa, alongside Abu Dhabi Media, which returns to racing after a four-year absence. Abu Dhabi Media’s coverage includes the full world feed every day, as part of a newly signed one-year deal featuring multiple international race events.
Across Asia, the Green Channel and Netkeiba will service Japanese audiences, while Racing.com and Sky Racing will hold rights in Australia.
Unique Viewing Experiences
Bbc Hd Maritime will provide full coverage of the royal meeting on Anuvu cruise ships, while Sport24 will make the event available on 10 airlines worldwide, ensuring that even travelers can enjoy the thrill of Royal Ascot.
Hba Media’s contract to sell international broadcast rights for Ascot Racecourse extends until 2027, under a four-year deal signed in November 2023.
Royal Ascot Broadcasters At A Glance
| Region | Broadcaster |
|---|---|
| middle East & North Africa | Abu Dhabi Media, dmi, Al Kass |
| Latin & South America | Espn |
| Caribbean | Sportsmax |
| Canada | Rogers (Sportsnet) |
| Europe | Rai (italy), Setanta (Baltics/Eurasia), Polsat (Poland), Cyta (Cyprus), Wedotv (Germany/Switzerland/Austria), Silknet (Georgia), Viaplay (Netherlands/Scandinavia) |
| Sub-Saharan Africa | Supersport (52 territories) |
| Asia | Green Channel & Netkeiba (Japan), Racing.com & Sky Racing (Australia) |
| United States | Nbc & Peacock |
The Enduring Appeal of Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot,beyond being a thrilling horse racing event,is a significant cultural and social occasion. Its history, tradition, and pageantry draw global attention, making it a valuable asset for broadcasters seeking to engage diverse audiences.
Pro Tip: Broadcasters often leverage Royal Ascot to showcase high-definition and 4k capabilities, enhancing the viewing experience and attracting tech-savvy audiences.
The Economic Impact Of Royal Ascot Media Rights
The sale of media rights for events like Royal Ascot generates significant revenue, which is reinvested into the sport. This funding supports infrastructure improvements, prize money, and initiatives to promote horse racing at all levels.A recent report by Deloitte (published Q1 2025) estimates that Royal Ascot contributes over £130 million to the Uk economy annually, with media rights playing a crucial role in this financial ecosystem.
Did You Know? Royal Ascot dates back to 1711, founded by Queen Anne. Each year, it attracts approximately 300,000 visitors, making it one of Europe’s most popular race meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Ascot Broadcasts
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Q: How can I watch Royal Ascot in my country?
A: Check your local sports broadcasters and streaming services for coverage details. Hba Media has secured deals with numerous broadcasters worldwide to ensure broad access to the event. -
Q: What kind of content can I expect from Royal ascot broadcasts?
A: Broadcasters typically offer live race coverage, pre- and post-race analysis, interviews with jockeys and trainers, and features on the fashion and social aspects of the event. -
Q: Are there any online streaming options for Royal Ascot?
A: Yes, many broadcasters offer online streaming through their websites or apps. In the U.S., Peacock will provide exclusive streaming coverage. -
Q: Will there be any international commentary available for Royal Ascot?
A: Yes, Hba Media provides a world feed with commentary in multiple languages to cater to international audiences. -
Q: How do media rights impact the future of Royal Ascot?
A: revenue from media rights sales helps to sustain and grow Royal Ascot, ensuring its continued success and contributing to the broader horse racing industry.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Royal Ascot? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
