RTÉ secures Six Nations broadcasting rights

RTÉ have secured exclusive Irish rights to broadcast every game of the RBS Six Nations until 2013.

The four-year agreement includes television, radio and online rights and comes into effect when the existing deal ends next season.

Group Head of RTÉ Sport, Glen Killane, said: “The RBS 6 Nations is one of the world’s greatest annual sporting events, one which deserves to be seen for free, and one which merits the highest standards in production. On behalf of the Irish public, RTÉ is delighted to be renewing our positive relationship with Six Nations until 2013.

“This agreement will ensure the public have more choice than ever, through our coverage on RTÉ television, RTÉ.ie and RTÉ Radio 1. We look forward to working with The Six Nations to continue to build audiences across all of our platforms.

“On RTÉ Television audiences have grown by 85% since 2004, a testament to the strength of the tournament and RTÉ’s commitment to high quality output.”

John Feehan, chief executive, Six Nations Rugby Ltd, said: “Our relationship with RTÉ has been one of long-standing, mutual benefit and very positive cooperation. It has seen the RBS 6 Nations extending its reach to growing numbers of rugby fans. We’re looking forward to continuing our relationship with RTÉ in supporting and growing the RBS 6 Nations tournament.”