The Discovery media group has extended its broadcast arrangement for the European rights to the French Open with the French Tennis Federation (FFT).
Under the terms of the renewal, Discovery’s five-year contract will see the media giant leverage the rights via its pan-European sports network Eurosport, the Discovery+ streaming service and its network of free-to-air channels across the continent.
“Our relationship with Roland-Garros spans many years and during that time we have consistently delivered ever-increasing viewership and engagement as the trusted partner of the FFT,” said Andrew Georgiou, President, Eurosport and Discovery’s Global Sports Rights and Sports Marketing Services.
“Our coverage is recognised for reaching the widest audience by harnessing the greatest expertise and the most innovative technology, and by committing to a renewed long-term partnership with the FFT, we will continue to bring world-class tennis from Roland-Garros to millions of fans each year across Europe.”
Discovery’s new deal for the rights to the Roland-Garros Grand Slam, which runs from 2022 to 2026, covers more than 50 territories, excluding France.
President of the FFT, Gilles Moretton, added that the agreement ‘illustrates how Roland Garros has stepped up its ambitions on the international stage’, with the tennis authority maintaining deals in Europe with over 20 local broadcasters.
Meanwhile, Eurosport has carried the French Open since 1989, with its existing deal due to expire this year.
