World Rally Championship television coverage entered a new era this week when broadcasters were given a first glimpse of an exciting range of new programmes for next year.
The shows were previewed at the Sportel international television and digital sports convention in Monaco and reflect sporting changes designed to boost live coverage of the WRC from 2011.
Top of the list is coverage of the forthcoming TV ‘power stages’ where drivers will compete for championship bonus points. The intention is to broadcast these stages – typically the last of each rally – live from all WRC events in 2011. Live television and onboard cameras will help to capture the action in a new one hour live ‘power stage’ programme.
As well as the live show, a new look daily highlight programme will include more onboard camera footage and brand new 3D graphics to put viewers in the driving seat.
The current one hour post-event show will feature more in depth action analysis and driver lifestyle content capturing the very essence of the WRC as a global epic motorsport adventure. Off-rally programming is also getting a makeover, with a one hour ‘Rally World’ show before each event covering the S-WRC, P-WRC and the forthcoming WRC Academy.
Simon Long, CEO of WRC promoter North One Sport said: “All the important sports properties and networks were at Sportel and we met with all the major European broadcasters as well as those from territories including China, Russia, Japan and the USA.
“The initial reaction to the power stages was extremely positive and broadcasters appreciated the WRC taking the step up to the top level of live sports TV. There was also a lot of interest from the new breed of digital networks looking for live interactive content – which of course is a perfect fit with the WRC.
“Generally there was a feeling that the sports market place is picking up after a tough period, with exhibitors noticeably more upbeat than in recent years. Along with that was a feeling that the WRC is entering a thrilling new era, with new cars and manufacturers giving audiences even more to get excited about. The WRC already provides television viewers with one of the most exciting armchair rides in motorsport but next year things rev up a gear.”
As well as the new programmes, North One Sport also announced a revamped global broadcast sales team headed by former ESPN International and Champ Car World Series executive Mark Reilly, who joins the company as Media Director.
– Credit: www.wrc.com