The BBC has clarified why it will not provide live television coverage of the Paralympic Games, stating that the television rights were awarded to Channel 4 by the London organisers, Locog, in January 2010. The corporation emphasised that this decision was not due to a lack of commitment to disability sport, but rather a contractual limitation.
Despite the absence of live TV coverage, the BBC will offer extensive radio coverage via BBC Radio 5 live and 5 live sports extra, featuring live commentary and reporting. Legendary Paralympic athlete Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and swimmer Marc Woods will be central to the programmes, presented daily from the Olympic Park.
The BBC's network of over 40 local radio stations, including BBC London, will also highlight athletes making an impact. BBC TV News outlets and local television stations will report on the Games, though access to venues and footage is restricted due to non-rights holder status.
Digitally, the BBC will provide dedicated Paralympics sections on its web and mobile sites, offering news, results, medals tables, schedules, photo galleries, and live text commentary. Listeners can access live action at bbc.co.uk/5live.
The BBC reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the Paralympics and disability sport, noting that the 2012 Paralympics is the largest ever and presents an opportunity to continue building the profile of the Games with audiences.
