BBC and London Marathon extend rights until 2021
The BBC and London Marathon have today announced a three-year extension of its contract up to and including the 2021 event.
Published: 20 April 2016
The London Marathon is an event that unites the nation via huge participation and the BBC’s coverage brings audiences to the heart of the action whilst telling the incredible stories of those taking part.
The deal gives the BBC exclusive UK broadcast rights to this iconic event across all platforms, including TV, radio and digital.
The new agreement, which covers the period 2019-2021 inclusive, includes the 40th anniversary of the London Marathon in 2020. BBC Sport has been the host broadcaster of the event since the first London Marathon in 1981 and the event has developed into one of the most important on the long-distance calendar, while raising millions of pounds for charity.
Barbara Slater, Director of BBC Sport, says: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationship with the London Marathon, which secures exclusive rights across TV, radio and digital platforms. The London Marathon is an event that unites the nation via huge participation and the BBC’s coverage brings audiences to the heart of the action whilst telling the incredible stories of those taking part.”
“BBC Sport has been a fantastic partner to the London Marathon,” says Hugh Brasher, Event Director for London Marathon. “There has been outstanding coverage and support of every aspect of the event – from the excitement of the elite races to the extraordinary stories of the charity and fun runners. We are delighted that our partnership is continuing.”
The 2016 Virgin Money London Marathon takes place on Sunday 24 April with exclusive live coverage across BBC One, BBC Two, Radio 5 live and BBC Red Button. Coverage begins on BBC One at 8.30am, with the men and masses race starting at 10am.
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