Seven Network to Broadcast Gold Coast 2018 in Australia

Australian television network Seven has signed a multi-million pound agreement with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to broadcast Gold Coast 2018.

Seven, prostate Australia’s most watched broadcaster, health has signed a contract which gives them rights across all media platforms for the Games, including free-to-air broadcast television and subscription television rights, online, mobile, social media and radio.

Seven last broadcast the Commonwealth Games in 2002 when it was held in Manchester.

Seven will be replacing the Ten Network, who had the broadcasting rights for Delhi 2010 and this year’s games in Glasgow.  

The network didn’t disclose the cost of the deal, but it is reported to be around £22 million (AUD$40 million).

Mike Hooper, CGF chief executive who will be stepping down after 12 years in charge on Friday, said: “The CGF is delighted to renew our relationship with Seven knowing it will ensure the widest possible coverage across the country when Australia again plays host to the Games on the Gold Coast in 2018.

“Seven’s commitment, coming off the success of Glasgow, illustrates the enduring appeal and bright future of the Commonwealth Games as we look ahead to 2018 on the Gold Coast and beyond.”

Gold Coast 2018 chairman Nigel Chamier said: “Seven’s sports credentials are superb and we look forward to them bringing their expertise and passion to our event on the Gold Coast.”

Earlier this month, the Seven Network also secured the Australian rights to broadcast the Olympics in Rio in 2016,  Pyeongchang 2018 and Tokyo 2020.

“The Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast are expected to deliver significant audiences across Seven’s broadcast and digital platforms,” said Tim Worner, chief executive of Seven Network Television.

“The Commonwealth Games in 2018 provides our business an extraordinary opportunity to drive home our leadership as we broadcast the Australian Tennis Open, the Olympic Winter Games and the Commonwealth Games in the one year.”