US pay-television broadcaster HRTV has purchased rights for horse racing’s Breeders’ Cup in what has been described as a “multi-year deal” with Breeders’ Cup Limited, owner of the thoroughbred racing series.
Under the deal, HRTV, which is a joint venture between racing and entertainment companies Churchill Downs and Stronach Group, will also produce and broadcast the Breeders’ Cup Players’ Show, showing 15 Breeders’ Cup races every year live via bookmakers around the world via the HRTV.com and BreedersCup.com websites.
The deal excludes the Breeders’ Cup Classic race, which is being shown live on US network NBC as part of a four-year deal, from 2012 to 2015.
The exact length of the HRTV deal has not been disclosed.
This year’s Breeders’ Cup will take place on November 2-3 at Santa Anita Park in Southern California.
“We are delighted to announce our new, multi-year partnership with HTRV for the Breeders’ Cup,” Breeders’ Cup president and chief executive Craig Fravel said. “The overall production capabilities and creative talents and expertise of HRTV are sure to provide fans and bettors with comprehensive coverage of this year’s championships over multiple platforms.”