French digital-terrestrial television channel L’Equipe 21 has acquired rights for the remainder of the 2015 season of the World Rally Championship motor racing series.
L’Equipe 21 will continue to provide live broadcasts and highlights of the WRC after being encouraged by its viewing figures during coverage of the season-opening Rallye Monte Carlo, which took place from January 22-25.
The new deal will take effect from Rally Sweden, which commences tomorrow (Thursday). The agreement means an entire season of the WRC will be provided on free-to-air television in France for the first time.
French drivers have won the WRC for the past 11 years, with Sebastien Loeb taking a record nine championships in a row before Sebastien Ogier (pictured) picked up the 2013 and 2014 titles.