RTÉ scores big win with 2011 World Cup coverage deal

RTÉ chiefs have expressed delight at securing the broadcast rights to next year’s Rugby World Cup.

The station, which lost out to TV3 in the bidding war four years ago, inked a comprehensive agreement which covers television, radio and online broadcasts.

The TV coverage includes the live broadcast of 13 key matches, including all of Ireland’s Pool matches, the final, the bronze final, both semi-finals, all four quarter-finals and the opening match, all of which will also be simulcast and available for catch-up on RTÉ.ie. In addition, all of Ireland’s games will be broadcast exclusively live on RTÉ Radio.

Ryle Nugent, RTÉ Group Head of Sport, said: “We are delighted to have secured these rights to ensure that the Irish public will enjoy live free-to-air coverage of all of Ireland’s games at Rugby World Cup next year.

“The tournament showcases the best teams in the world and fans can look forward to following the Irish team’s progression every step of the way on all of RTÉ’s platforms.

“The awarding of these rights to RTÉ is recognition by Rugby World Cup Limited of the quality of our sports coverage and we look forward to sharing what is set to be momentous sporting occasion with the Irish public.”

Mike Miller, Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) managing director paid tribute to RTÉ’s quality coverage: “RWCL is delighted to be extending its association with RTÉ Sport to broadcast Rugby World Cup 2011 throughout Ireland. RTÉ is recognised as a leading broadcaster of quality sports coverage and a true champion of rugby in Ireland and we are looking forward to working in partnership with RTÉ to further the promotion of Rugby World Cup and rugby in the build up to next year’s event.”