Sky Sports Nears Broadcast Deal for Inaugural Women's British & Irish Lions Tour
Quick Brief
Sky Sports is reportedly in advanced discussions to secure the live broadcast rights for the inaugural women's British & Irish Lions tour. The historic series is scheduled to take place in New Zealand next September, featuring five total matches including three Tests against the Black Ferns. Sky has held the live broadcast rights for the men's Lions tours since 1997.
What Happened?
Sky Sports is closing in on an agreement to broadcast the first-ever women's British & Irish Lions tour live. The tour, set for next September in New Zealand, will consist of five fixtures: three Test matches against the Black Ferns and two additional tour games. All five matches are expected to be covered by the broadcaster.
Why It Matters
Securing live coverage on a major network represents a significant boost for the visibility and commercial growth of women's rugby union, building upon Sky's long-standing relationship with the men's Lions fixtures dating back to 1997.
Key Facts
- Sky Sports is in advanced talks to broadcast the first women's British & Irish Lions tour.
- The inaugural tour is scheduled to take place in New Zealand in September of next year.
- The team will play five total fixtures, including three Test matches against the Black Ferns and two tour matches.
- Sky has previously held live broadcast rights for men’s Lions tours since 1997.
What Happens Next?
The broadcaster is expected to finalize discussions to officially add the women's series to its portfolio.
Compiled from 1 outlet
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