UK public-service broadcaster the BBC has renewed its rights deal with the Burghley Horse Trials, the annual equestrian event, for four years, from 2013 to 2016.
The deal ensures free-to-air coverage in the UK of one of the sport’s top three-day events in the lead-up to the next summer Olympic Games in Rio in 2016.
The Burghley Horse Trials is one of the three events which make up the grand slam of eventing in equestrianism. The other two events are the Kentucky Three Day and the Badminton Horse Trials.
Elizabeth Inman, event director for the Burghley Horse Trials, said: “Burghley is one of the world’s top three Eventing competitions and having the BBC as our principal broadcasting partner is a vital element in our constant quest to create the best test of Eventing for both the sport’s participants and fans.”
Philip Bernie, BBC head of TV sport, said: “We’re delighted to extend our broadcast deal with Burghley Horse Trials for another four years. Burghley is a highlight of the international three day eventing calendar – one of the Olympic sports that enjoyed Team GB success at London 2012 with a team Silver medal. We’ve brought it to viewers on the BBC for many years and are very pleased to continue this relationship.”