Tensions emerge inside Ch9’s Olympics team over star treatment

As the Olympics draw closer, tensions are reportedly brewing within the host broadcaster over preferential treatment.

Tensions are reportedly brewing within the Channel 9 broadcast team ahead of the network’s Olympics coverage.

As the host broadcaster ramps up preparations ahead of the Paris Olympics, a report states several Nine regulars aren’t happy.

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The Sunday Telegraph reports the introduction of Olympic stars into the mix has caused a stir among the regular commentary crew.

The report states that several former Australian Olympians, from Ian Thorpe to Andrew Gaze and Stephanie Rice, are being paid bloated salaries to feature on Stan’s coverage of the upcoming Games.

Steph Rice and Ian Thorpe are going to Paris.

“It is rumoured some of these Olympic stars are being paid up to $10,000 a day to feature on Stan’s coverage of the Olympics, have been offered business-class flights and will stay right near where all the action is,” one insider said to The Daily Telegraph.

The insider also stated the usual commentary crew, “who will no doubt be doing the hard yards”, were offered peanuts in comparison and won’t be remotely close to where the action is unfolding in Paris.

The list of talent for Stan’s coverage of the Paris Games is reportedly set to include Thorpe, Gaze, Cadel Evans, Tamysn Lewis-Manou, Ellie Cole, Dylan Alcott, Phil Liggett, Kerri Pottharst, James Tomkins, Kate Bates and David Culbert.

Thorpey will be a part of the Olympics coverage. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Channel 9’s director of programming Hamish Turner previously spoke about the broadcaster bringing viewers the “ultimate experience”.

“We are in a privileged position to bring the world’s greatest sporting event free to all Australians,” Turner said.

“As proud custodians of both the Olympics and Paralympics, we will deliver the ultimate viewing experience, as our proud sporting nation cheers on our incredible athletes in Paris.

“We will offer a unified, seamless experience for every Aussie, no matter their device or platform.

“With more than 40 individual channels and curated highlights, we’re excited to take viewers on an incredible sporting journey”.

Originally published as Tensions emerge inside Ch9’s Olympics team over star treatment