Rugby fans in Wales will enjoy free-to-air Guinness Pro12 matches in the new season after BBC Wales and S4C announced a new four-year rights deal.
The broadcasters will share fixtures across the season, ensuring that fans the length and breadth of Wales can access live action from the regions on terrestrial television. BBC Wales will show Friday night matches on Scrum V Live, with S4C covering Sunday afternoon fixtures on Clwb Rygbi.
The Pro12 is set to become even fiercer next year with end-of-season results deciding sought-after places in the Rugby Champions Cup.
“We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with BBC Wales and S4C,” said John Feehan, Chief Executive of Pro12 Rugby. “And with Guinness, our new sponsor, on board, we look forward to growing our competition with all our broadcasters and clubs attracting larger audiences and more fans.”
“The new qualification rules for Europe will provide real added spice from next season, making the Pro12 competition ‘must-see TV’ for Welsh rugby fans,” said BBC Wales Director Rhodri Talfan Davies. “We’ve struck a terrific deal with Celtic Rugby that ensures every fan in Wales has the very best view of the action.”
“I’m very proud that S4C has once again ensured that Welsh regional rugby is available to view on free-to-air TV. Live Guinness Pro12 action will be one of the cornerstones of Clwb – S4C’s new Sunday afternoon sports service,” said S4C Chief Executive Ian Jones. “By working together, S4C and BBC Cymru Wales have succeeded in ensuring that regional rugby remains available to everyone in Wales.”