RTÉ secures Six Nations rights until 2009

RTÉ has secured radio and television broadcast rights to the RBS 6 Nations until 2009.

“We’re thrilled to be able to make this announcement which means that, once again, the Irish public will be able to watch rugby’s most competitive tournament live on free-to-air television.

“Bringing the big competitions to the widest possible audience is one of the things we strive to deliver, and the RBS Six Nations certainly falls into that category,” said Glen Killane, RTÉ Head of TV Sport.

The deal was also welcomed by John Feehan, chief executive, RBS 6 Nations.

“The RBS 6 Nations are delighted to be renewing their longstanding relationship with RTÉ.”

The announcement is another huge boost to RTÉ, coming in the wake of a four-year deal with the FAI

The agreement provides live TV broadcasting rights to RTE for all Irish senior international home competitive games until the completion of the World Cup qualifying games for World Cup 2010. RTE also gains rights to transmit on a deferred basis, coverage of all senior home international friendly fixtures in the same period. Radio rights are also included in agreement.