WBD Secures Pan-European Deal for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Here’s a summary of the key information from the ‍provided text:

* New‌ Broadcaster: warner Bros.‌ Finding (WBD) has secured the broadcast rights for ‌the 2026 Commonwealth Games in the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe.
* Coverage ​Details:

* TNT Sports (WBD’s UK channel): Will provide live linear coverage.
⁤ * HBO Max: ⁤ Will stream over 600‌ hours of live content (launching in the UK ​next⁤ March).
* End of ⁣BBC⁢ Coverage: This marks the end⁢ of the BBC’s long-standing coverage of the Commonwealth Games ⁢in the⁣ UK, having broadcast the last 18 editions as 1954.
* “Crown Jewels” ​Status: The Commonwealth Games are in Category B of the UK’s protected sporting events list, meaning only ⁤highlights need to be shown on free-to-air TV. WBD ⁣is working on a deal with a free-to-air broadcaster for highlights.
* Commonwealth Sport’s ​View: Katie Sadleir (Commonwealth⁢ Sport CEO) believes the partnership will offer‌ fans new ways to connect with the games and athletes.
*​ WBD’s Promise: Scott Young (WBD Sports⁣ europe EVP) promises complete, immersive, and accessible coverage with a focus on athlete storytelling.
* Potential Criticism: Awarding exclusive rights to a pay-TV broadcaster ‌is likely to face criticism.