Extreme E has added a fourth broadcast partner for its coverage in the United Kingdom, with ITV joining the BBC, BT Sport and Sky Sports, which have already confirmed they will air the first season of the electric off-road series.
However the latest deal with ITV will see it become the exclusive terrestrial broadcaster in the UK from season two in 2022 through to 2023.
The channel will not only broadcast live racing, but will also offer highlights and the championship’s 20-part magazine programme – Electric Odyssey.
The deal with ITV is in line with the broadcaster’s aim to to create content in the most sustainable way possible. Back in August 2020, the channel announced its climate action plans focusing on bringing viewers the biggest shows with the smallest footprint.
Targets for 2030 include becoming net carbon zero across its business, establishing a 100 per cent sustainable supply chain and to have zero waste.
“I’m thrilled Extreme E will air on ITV with its reach to the screens of millions of households,” commented Ali Russell, Chief Marketing Officer at Extreme E.
“The UK has a massive appetite for motorsport, but Extreme E is about much more than that, and I’m delighted ITV shares our common goal of protecting the environment through its sustainable practices, particularly having certification from Albert – the authority on environmental sustainability for film and TV.
“Niall Sloane and his team are amazing to work with and we are looking forward to making history with the world’s first sport for purpose!”
Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, added: “Bringing ITV viewers the launch of an innovative motorsport that promises first class live action underpinned by an insight into the possibilities of sustainable technology is an exciting prospect. We’re looking forward to the opening event next month and beyond as the exclusive live UK broadcaster of Extreme E in the coming years.”
This new deal adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free-to-air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the FA Cup from next season, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.
In addition to ITV, Extreme E will be available on over 40 global broadcasters such as FOX Sports, Eurosport and ESPN, covering regions including North America, Asia and Europe.
