Belgian pay-television operator Telenet has signed an extension to its rights deal with the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
The renewed agreement will run for five years, through to 2022.
From 2019, Telenet will act as the host broadcaster for all 16 matches played each year by Belgium’s men’s and women’s teams in the new Hockey Pro League.
Telenet will also deliver full visibility across multiple platforms for all 144 Pro League matches per season, as well as the showpiece Grand Final events.
The inaugural Hockey Pro League is due to begin on January 19, when Belgium’s men will travel to face Spain.
FIH TV and broadcast director, Andy Oram, said: “Belgium is one of the strongest nations in the Hockey Pro League and this partnership with Telenet further enhances our global strategy to deliver world class production and content. This partnership is an important step for FIH in order to bring this game-changing new competition to sports fans across the world.
“(Telenet) have made a significant contribution to hockey in recent years and will remain key players in helping to aid hockey’s continued growth at what is a very exciting time for the sport.”