Super League extends broadcast deal with Sky Sports

The Rugby Football League has welcomed Super League's new television agreement with Sky Sports and revealed it is in "positive" talks with other broadcasters about a deal of its own. Photo: Richard Sellers/PA Wire.

The current contract expired at the end of this campaign.

Executive chairman Robert Elstone had been brought in ahead of the 2019 campaign to try and secure a better deal for the top-flight competition.

While this hasn't been achieved - the new contract is understood to be less than the existing deal, and Elstone has since departed - the new deal offers clubs security for the next two seasons.

TV money makes up a significant chunk of each club's income.

Sky Sports will continue to show 66 live matches exclusively each season, and has vowed to work with Super League to "reach new audiences and will make some of this season’s fixtures available via free-to-air Sky platforms".

On the announcement, Super League executive chairman Ken Davy said: "It's great to be able to extend our excellent partnership with Sky Sports. Sky have been with us from the start of the competition, back in 1996, and are now an integral part of the Super League family. Together out partnership has seen Super League achieve record viewing figures in recent years.

"We've worked closely throughout the current pandemic and every step of the way Sky have been immensely supportive. Together we have managed to give fans an exceptional amount of coverage during these unprecedented times.

"We're truly grateful for Sky Sports comprehensive Super League coverage, capturing so many iconic moments for over 25 years. Their coverage of Jack Welsby's unbelievable last minute try to win the 2020 Betfred Super League Grand Final for St Helens will remain in the memory of fans for many years to come.

"Super League looks forward to working with Sky Sports on the exciting free-to-air opportunity, growing our audience and allowing more fans than ever before to see our great game."

Sky Sports Managing Director Rob Webster said: "The Betfred Super League continues to produce fantastic drama on the pitch and is an essential part of our offering to Sky Sports customers. We look forward to bringing our viewers more magic moments from the competition in the years to come."