BBC secures Six Nations rights

The BBC has secured exclusive rights to the Six Nations rugby tournament until 2017 and has extended its existing contract for live rights until 2013.

BBC Director of Sport, Barbara Slater, said: “The Six Nations is a crown jewel in the sporting calendar and we’re delighted that we can continue to bring the tournament to our audiences. Viewing figures continue to grow year on year and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Six Nations to build interest even further through the BBC’s unparalleled offering of TV, radio, online and interactive services.”

The UK public broadcaster has secured TV, radio and online rights to the tournament. The BBC reacquired the rights from BSkyB in 2003.