EBU and World Rowing extend media rights through 2032

In a significant development for the sport of rowing, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and World Rowing have announced the extension of their media rights partnership through 2032. This long-standing collaboration, which dates back to the early 1980s, continues to ensure that some of the sport’s most prestigious events will enjoy comprehensive coverage across Europe and beyond. The renewed agreement underscores the importance of rowing as a competitive sport and enhances its visibility through multiple media platforms. Fans and sports enthusiasts can look forward to an extended era of access to world-class rowing competitions, streamed and broadcast across a variety of channels.

EBU and World Rowing Renew Media Rights Through 2032 for Major Events

The new partnership agreement solidifies the EBU’s role in broadcasting key international rowing events for nearly a decade, beginning in 2025 through the end of 2032. It covers all major competitions, including the World Rowing Championships, European Rowing Championships, and the annual World Rowing Cups series. This continuity guarantees that audiences across Europe will have ongoing access to live coverage of the sport’s most important moments, drawing larger audiences and raising the profile of rowing on the continent. The agreement also affirms the EBU’s commitment to maintaining high-quality coverage, ensuring that viewers experience the thrill and drama of every race.

Thirteen EBU member broadcasters are involved in the renewal, with six committed to providing coverage through 2032. These broadcasters include prominent names such as Croatia’s HRT, Czechia’s CT, Germany’s ARD/ZDF, Greece’s ERT, Ireland’s RTE, Italy’s RAI (also covering San Marino and Vatican), The Netherlands’ NOS, Poland’s TVP, Romania’s TVR, Spain’s RTVE, Switzerland’s SRG, and Ukraine’s Suspilne. This extensive network of broadcasters ensures broad reach, bringing rowing closer to diverse audiences across Europe. Moreover, the agreement expands the scope of coverage beyond traditional television, embracing digital platforms to engage viewers in innovative ways.

The EBU’s rights extend to all media formats, including linear TV broadcasts, digital streaming, and audio coverage, reflecting the evolving media landscape. Eurovision Sport, the EBU’s dedicated streaming service, will serve as a key platform for live coverage of World and European Rowing events. This digital focus allows fans to enjoy rowing events on-demand or through live streams, increasing accessibility and interaction. The partnership also emphasizes a unified approach to broadcasting, ensuring that rowing fans can follow their favorite athletes and competitions seamlessly across devices and platforms, regardless of location.

Long-term Partnership Extends Coverage Across Platforms and New Competitions

The extension of the media rights agreement signifies not only continuity but also growth in the scope of coverage for rowing. The partnership now explicitly includes new and emerging formats, such as the upcoming World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals – a novel racing style making its Olympic debut at the LA 2028 Games. This innovative event will be broadcast across all platforms, further engaging audiences with the sport’s evolving landscape. By incorporating cutting-edge competitions, the EBU and World Rowing are demonstrating their commitment to innovation and the future of rowing.

This long-term deal also ensures that major upcoming events, like the 2025 World Rowing Championships in Shanghai and the inaugural Beach Sprint Finals in Antalya, will benefit from enhanced media coverage. With plans to broadcast these events extensively across traditional and digital media, the partnership aims to grow global interest in rowing and attract new fans worldwide.

The renewal of the media rights partnership between the EBU and World Rowing marks a major milestone for the sport’s global and European audiences. By extending coverage through 2032, the collaboration guarantees continued access to premier rowing events and introduces innovative formats like the Beach Sprint Finals. As digital and traditional media platforms become increasingly integrated, fans can expect a richer, more accessible experience.