Sky Sports secures Super League rights in three-year deal

Sky Sports is to live broadcast all of the matches from the UK’s rugby league, Betfred Super League, for the first time from next season as part of a new three-year rights deal.

The UK sport network will show all six matches in each Super League round live, totalling around 170 games each year across Sky Sports channels and platforms. This will include Magic Weekend fixtures, Playoffs and all three Grand Finals – Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair.

The Sky Sports’ investment will also see video referees feature in all Super League matches, in an aim to drive consistency and integrity to the sport, according to the broadcaster.

Jonathan Licht, Sky Sports managing director said: “It’s been an exceptional season and we are excited that from next season every try, tackle and pass from every fixture will be shown live across Sky platforms – a first for the sport. Alongside our commitment to the women’s and wheelchair game, we are delighted that fans will be able to enjoy the most comprehensive offering in the history of the sport.”

Rugby League Commercial will aim to attract new viewers with free-to-air broadcast opportunities, as well as through its dedicated Super League-owned streaming platform, with further details to be announced this autumn.

As part of the Reimagining Rugby League project developed through the strategic partnership with IMG, membership of the men’s Super League will be determined by a new grading system from 2025.

Rhodri Jones, RL commercial managing director added: “Super League’s partnership with Sky Sports has been constantly evolving since the competition was launched in 1996, and we are excited to have confirmed this significant extension which will lift that partnership, and the Super League itself, to a new level. The timing is perfect for a deal of this kind after such an exciting and competitive season underlining the genuine depth of the competition, and with Rugby League embarking on an exciting new era through our strategic partnership with IMG.”