As the likes of Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves, Hull FC and Hull KR eagerly anticipate the 2024 Super League season the excitement for the new campaign has increased ten fold after a major announcement: Sky Sports will be showing ever Super League fixture in 2024 and beyond.
This is part of their new agreement with RL Commercial which will also see a video referee at every game in 2024 and beyond which is a vital step for the sport.
But there are some who have suggested that the sport could be hurt by this in terms of attendances with now less incentive to attend fixtures.
This could even provide a problem for clubs in terms of IMG points.
But at the end of the day, TV money is more important for the sport.
Jonathan Licht, Sky Sports managing director said: “We are extremely proud of our long-standing relationship with Super League and delighted to be extending our partnership beyond three decades through this agreement.
“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.”
Some fans have quite rightly raised a concern about Channel 4’s coverage but RL Commercial retain the ability to attract new viewers with the continuation of free-to-air broadcast opportunities, as well as through a dedicated Super League-owned streaming platform – with further details to be confirmed through the 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 said: “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.”
In addition to live matches, Super League fans can tune in to Sky Sports for a range of support programming, including interviews and features, and can stay across all the latest Rugby League news across Sky Sports’ channels on social media, SkySports.com and Sky Sports News.
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