Supercars have confirmed a fresh five-year renewal deal with Sky Sports to continue broadcasting the series in New Zealand.
Sky took the sole broadcasting reins of the series back in 2013 and today’s confirmation of a new deal extends the partnership until after the 2025 season.
The developments come as Supercars continue to try and ink a new deal with its local broadcaster Fox Sports while Free-to-air coverage via Channel 10 is likely to be axed.
“We’re delighted to have reached a new agreement with Sky Sport and look forward to continuing our fantastic and enduring partnership,” said Supercars CEO Sean Seamer prior to today’s opening race from Sydney Motorsport Park.
“Partnering with Sky Sport ensures the ultimate package for the fans, the sport, our teams and our invaluable partners. The agreement delivers full coverage of all races across the season. This was particularly imperative for us when we began discussions for the future.
“Sky Sport plays a huge role in allowing us to showcase our sport to our ever-growing New Zealand fan base, which is incredibly important to us.”
Sky TV CEO Martin Stewart added his praise for the new broadcasting deal:
“It’s fantastic that we have one of the most exhilarating motorsports events back on our screens, and we’re also thrilled to have inked a five-year deal for Supercars, ensuring New Zealand fans can enjoy this sport for many seasons to come,” Stewart said.
“Supercars really pulls in the Sky Sport viewers who love the adrenalin, personalities, the skill and rivalry always on show in this competition.”
Four-time Bathurst 1000 winner and New Zealand Supercars icon Greg Murphy said the new deal gives the series an opportunity to reconsider how the sport is presented.
“I’m as excited as anyone to see Supercars back. The changes which have been forced on the competition may well give us all the chance to rethink how we put on and present the sport.
“Change is good. I reckon we embrace it and make the circumstances work for us and the fans, ensuring the sport comes back in really good health and with a sustainable future in our sights.”
Supercars and Sky… a pity… anotjer 5 years of Supercars off my calendar…