BBC Sport NI extends North West 200 deal

The North West 200 will continue to be shown live on BBC Sport NI after agreeing a new five-year deal.

A broadcasting extension was confirmed last night by the BBC with its NI division maintain the same level of coverage recently produced across TV, radio and digital outlets until at least 2025.

All races and practice sessions will continue to be shown live by BBC Sport NI and online, while BBC Radio Ulster will also cover all races and practice sessions live.

Three highlight programmes will also be produced for BBC Northern Ireland television and available on the BBC iPlayer.

It means aside from Formula E’s new BBC digital deal which started in December, the NW200 remains the only major motorsport event broadcast completely live by the BBC.

“The NW200 attracts the interest of motorcycle racing fans from all over the world and the BBC broadcasts have been an integral part in helping us to build that international reputation,” NW200 director Mervyn Whyte MBE said.

“The agreement also demonstrates the confidence BBC NI has in the NW200 and its race organisation.

“On a personal level, I have worked very closely with BBC personnel over many years, building up an excellent rapport with all the members of the team. Everyone at the North West is looking forward to continuing that relationship in 2019 and beyond.”

“Now in its 90th year, the International North West 200 is one of those special events that captures the imagination of riders and fans right across the globe," Peter Johnston, Director BBC Northern Ireland, added.

“BBC Northern Ireland relishes the opportunity to be able to bring the action and the passion of the event to the widest possible audience.”