World Rugby announce International Games Broadcast Services deal for 2019

World Rugby has announced the appointment of International Games Broadcast Services (IGBS) as host broadcaster for Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan, the first Rugby World Cup in Asia.

IGBS, a partnership between HBS and IMG, will be responsible for the world feed delivery to rights-holding broadcasters as well as production innovation and content production for one of the world’s biggest and best-loved major sports events.

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: “Rugby World Cup 2015 set new standards of rugby broadcast innovation and delivery, providing fans in a record number of nations with every unforgettable moment from the most compelling and competitive tournament to date.

“We look forward to working with IGBS to deliver an exceptional service and experience for broadcasters and fans around the world as we anticipate a tournament that will be the catalyst to unprecedented participation growth across the world’s most populous region.”

World Rugby Head of Commercial, Broadcast and Marketing Murray Barnett added: “As we look ahead to Japan 2019, the scale of the host broadcast option and its integration into all aspects of tournament planning and fan experience means that the ability to deliver services in-house is an exciting opportunity, reflecting our ambition to build the brand and fan legacy between tournaments by ensuring an innovative and immersive approach to broadcast.”

IGBS Chairman Graham Fry said: “Between us, IMG and HBS, will provide a unique combination of rugby knowledge, host broadcast experience from major sporting events all over the world and familiarity with working in Japan. IMG has worked with Francis Tellier and his HBS team since the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and Korea. Our experience and expertise complement each other perfectly.”