THIS year’s World Cup will be screened exclusively live by Premier Sports in the UK – meaning there is set to be no free-to-air TV coverage.
The subscription channel will show all 18 matches in the men’s tournament, as well as England and knockout games in the women’s and wheelchair competitions.
Premier Sports have previously broadcast matches at the 2013 and 2017 World Cups, although the BBC held exclusive rights to the most recent event held in 2022.
That was the first time every match in the three competitions was shown live, however Premier say only that “there is provision to broadcast more Women’s and Wheelchair World Cup matches live, depending on scheduling commitments.”
While the BBC were keen to show a home World Cup three years ago, there was less enthusiasm from UK broadcasters for this one, hosted by Australia with some matches in New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, as games will take place overnight and in the morning.
But Premier say they are delighted with the deal, which also includes Ireland, to show the month-long World Cup starting with top-ranked men’s sides Australia and New Zealand playing on Thursday, October 15 and concluding with men’s and women’s double-header finals on Sunday, November 15.
The broadcaster’s CEO, Richard Sweeney, said: “This is one of the major events in the international sporting calendar and we are looking forward to showing every match from the men’s tournament live, alongside extensive coverage of the women’s and wheelchair tournaments.
“England’s opening (men’s) match against Tonga (on Saturday, October 17) promises to be a fascinating contest, and our full studio presentation around every England fixture will give supporters expert insight, analysis and reaction throughout the tournament.
“Premier Sports has a proud history with rugby league, from the 2013 and 2017 World Cups to our more recent coverage of the Championship (in 2022 and 2023).
“We are excited to bring that experience and commitment to this tournament and to showcase the very best of the international game.”
The deal was negotiated by IMG, who handle the media rights for International Rugby League as well as being a strategic partner of the Rugby Football League.
Danny Kazandjian, secretary general of IRL, said: “Premier Sports has had a strong partnership with international rugby league events for many years and has showcased some of the sport’s elite tournaments.
“IRL is really excited about renewing that relationship as we continue to develop our business, increasing our capacity to invest consistently and in a meaningful way in the global game.
“We have no doubt that Premier Sports’ customers will be enthralled by what promises to be one of the most competitive World Cups in history.”