Premiership Rugby has announced a landmark six-year television partnership with TNT Sports, extending their collaboration until the end of the 2030-31 season. This new deal builds on the existing agreement, which has already seen significant growth in viewership and fan engagement.

Comprehensive Coverage

Under the terms of the agreement, every match of the Premiership Rugby season—including the play-offs and final—will be broadcast live on TNT Sport's linear TV channels or streamed via its Discovery+ service. Additionally, selected matches from the Premiership Rugby Cup and at least one game per round of the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) season will be televised until the end of 2028-29.

Record-Breaking Viewership

Simon Massie-Taylor, CEO of Premiership Rugby, expressed enthusiasm about the extended partnership: "This deal allows both parties to invest in the long-term growth of the Gallagher Premiership. Our recent collaboration with TNT Sports has driven record audiences, attracted a million new fans, and resulted in consecutive sold-out finals."

Since the start of the current season, TNT Sports has reported an 11% increase in average viewership compared to the previous year. The broadcaster has also seen an 86% year-on-year rise in audience numbers for Premiership Women's Rugby, highlighting the growing popularity of the sport.

Expanding Women's Rugby

Genevieve Shore, Executive Chair of PWR, emphasized the significance of the deal for women's rugby: "The extension of our partnership with TNT Sports is a major step forward. The surge in viewership last season demonstrates the potential of PWR, and together, we will continue to elevate women's rugby."

Free-to-Air Access

In addition to the TNT Sports deal, Premiership Rugby has extended its partnership with ITV, ensuring that seven matches per season, including the final, are available free-to-air. This includes the rebranded highlights show, Gallagher Premiership Unleashed, which has further expanded the league's reach.

Looking Ahead

With this new agreement, Premiership Rugby and TNT Sports are poised to further enhance the visibility and appeal of rugby union, both in the UK and globally. The deal underscores the commitment to growing the sport and providing fans with unparalleled access to top-tier rugby action.