Major sporting TV network disappears from TV screens
A global TV giant is set to be erased from screens with the likes of Jim Courier and John McEnroe caught in the middle.
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Global sporting giant Eurosport is set to disappear from TV screens.
It has been confirmed this week the sporting network will be erased as part of a merger with TNT Sports in the UK.
The networks have confirmed both Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2 will merge with TNT Sports, beginning from February 28.
The channels have been a staple of British TV for 35 years, broadcasting popular events like the Tour de France, snooker majors and tennis Grand Slams, The Sun reports.
They have also been the lead broadcaster of the Olympics since 2020 in Tokyo and were awarded coverage until the 2032 Games in Brisbane.
Closer to home, Eurosport had secured the rights to broadcast the Australian Open through to the end of 2031.
The network’s star-studded commentary team featured Jim Courier, John McEnroe and Boris Becker.
Warner Bros. Discovery, who operate TNT Sports, purchased Eurosport back in 2014.
At the time it was estimated the collective worth of the Eurosport International group was $1.2 billion.
They have heavily re-branded the networks since, with BT Sport changing its name to TNT.
Chiefs say the latest change is to boost and simplify choices for fans.
WBD Sports Europe chief Scott Young said: “Combining Eurosport and TNT Sports content in the UK and Ireland will enable us to offer a single, premium viewing experience for sports fans.
“We know audiences are looking for a slightly simpler journey on where to find the sport they love.
“This move will also continue to best deliver value for our leagues and federation partners, as we continue our 35 years plus commitment to investment and championing of sport on our screens.”
Eurosport’s axing has sparked fears over free-to-air sports coverage.
The merger will not impact the Olympics, with them set to continue sharing the rights with the BBC going forward.
On the Tour de France, Young confirmed “parts” will be shown on channel Quest.
He has also promised “more immersive coverage” of the cycling.
Eurosport most recently made headlines in Australia when veteran sports commentator Bob Ballard was sacked on the back of comments made about the Aussie women’s swimming team during the Paris Olympic.
Ballard said he had not intended to “upset or belittle” anyone after comments made about Aussie champs Mollie O’Callaghan, Emma McKeon, Meg Harris and Shayna Jack caused outrage.
After the Aussie quartet’s victory in the 4x100m freestyle relay, Ballard suggested their delay in leaving the venue was because they were “doing their make-up”.
“Well, the women just finishing up. You know what women are like … hanging around, doing their make-up,” he said.
— This story originally appeared on The Sun and has been republished with permission.
Originally published as Major sporting TV network disappears from TV screens
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