Discovery Italy to Broadcast 6 Nations from 2014

Discovery Italy has sealed a deal with RBS 6 Nations to secure exclusive sports rights across TV, abortion online and mobile platforms in Italy for the RBS 6 Nations Rugby tournament for four years from 2014-2017.

The matches will all be broadcast exclusively on DMAX, one of Discovery Italy’s six DTT channels, free to air and live.

Dee Forbes, President and Managing Director, Discovery Networks Western Europe, said: “This deal with the RBS 6 Nations is a great opportunity for our Italian business. DMAX launched at the end of 2011 and has quickly established itself as a destination channel for men aged 20-49 and we are thrilled to be adding Rugby to the breadth of content we offer on the channel.”

Marinella Soldi, CEO of Discovery Italy commented: “We are extremely proud to be able to announce this new deal to host the broadcast of the RBS 6 Nations over the next four years.

“It is great news for Rugby fans across Italy who will be able to follow the tournament and watch the matches on DMAX.

“Rugby Union and DMAX in Italy have a lot in common: they are both young, increasing in popularity and have similar values of passion and honesty. DMAX will be able to engage viewers in the tournament in a fresh and innovative way, in the style and tradition of Discovery.

“We hope to see them grow together thanks to new and existing fans that DMAX will reach.”

John Feehan, Chief Executive of Six Nations Rugby Ltd, said: “We are delighted to welcome Discovery to our family of broadcasters.

Our main purpose is to expand the reach of our sport and we believe that our partnership with Discovery will enhance the popularity of Rugby Union in Italy.”

Alfredo Gavazzi, President of F.I.R. commented: “I am very pleased with thisnew Agreement between Discovery Italy and the RBS Six Nations for three reasons.

“I was impressed by the enthusiasm, commitment and innovative approach to new ideas from Discovery.

“DMAX will bring rugby into the homes of a new audience that we didn’t reach before, and we will have all 15 meetings transmitted free to air.”

The RBS 6 Nations campaign will be supported with a promotional campaign across the entire Discovery Italian channel portfolio from December to March.