Wimbledon will remain on free-to-air television until at least 2033 after the BBC signed a six-year extension with the All England Club. The new deal, announced before the Championships start next week, extends the BBC's existing agreement that was due to expire after next summer. Wimbledon is the broadcaster's biggest live sporting asset after the men's football World Cup, European Championship and Olympics.
The All England Club has taken tentative steps towards pay television in recent years, selling secondary rights to the finals to TNT Sports. However, it has not given serious consideration to ending a relationship with the BBC that began with radio coverage in 1927. Subscription services such as TNT Sports, Sky Sports and Amazon Prime have acquired live rights for other grand slams, but none can match the reach and viewing figures guaranteed by the BBC, which heavily promotes Wimbledon across its platforms.
"We are delighted to extend our historic partnership with the BBC through to 2033," said Debbie Jevans, chair of the All England Club. "For nearly a century, we have worked together to bring the magic of Wimbledon to generations of fans in the UK. This agreement reflects our absolute commitment to ensuring Wimbledon remains freely available to the widest possible audience across the nation."
The BBC is altering its Wimbledon coverage, with long-serving commentator Andrew Castle stepping down after 24 years. Jamie Murray, who retired from playing this year, will join a new-look lineup including former British No 1 Laura Robson, 1992 champion Andre Agassi, and women's finalist Eugenie Bouchard. Coverage will again be spearheaded by Clare Balding and Isa Guha.
