Viaplay to broadcast rugby's Challenge Cup for next two seasons

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 06 December 2022

Viaplay announces a deal with the EPCR to broadcast the Challenge Cup for the next two seasons.

Viaplay has agreed a two-year deal with the EPCR allowing it to broadcast European rugby's second-tier competition the Challenge Cup in the UK.

The service - rebranded from Premier Sports last month - already broadcasts Top 14 and the United Rugby Championship, and under the new arrangement will be able to screen at least four matches per pool round of the Challenge Cup.

"We are thrilled to partner with EPCR and to secure even more world-class rugby to complement our BKT United Rugby Championship and TOP 14 coverage," said Ed Breeze, head of sports for Viaplay in the UK.

"Rugby is a top priority for Viaplay in the UK, and our viewers can look forward to some of the very best action from the EPCR Challenge Cup over the coming two years."

EPCR chairman Dominic McKay added: "This is a momentous season for the tournaments as we welcome the leading South African clubs into the EPCR fold, and Viaplay are an important addition to the wide range of subscription and free-to-air agreements we already have in place for the new broadcast cycle.

"Already broadcasting our League competitions, the BKT United Rugby Championship and LNR's TOP 14, Viaplay have rugby broadcast experience in place and are certain to bring new viewers to the tournament in the UK."

Viaplay's coverage starts this Friday night with French side USA Perpignan taking on Bristol Bears.

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