BBC & ITV Announce Split Of Uefa Euro 2020 Matches
The BBC and ITV have announced their split of UEFA EURO 2020 matches, with both broadcasters to screen England and Wales group games.
The two free-to-air broadcasters traditionally divide the games at major football tournaments between themselves, with both showing the final simultaneously.
This time, the BBC will screen the tournament’s opening game, which will see Italy will face Turkey in Rome on Friday 12th June as well as England’s opening group game, a rematch against Croatia – who defeated Gareth Southgate’s side in the 2018 World Cup semi-final – on the 14th June. It will also show Wales’s first two fixtures against Switzerland and Turkey.
ITV will have England’s last two group games against the Czech Republic and an as-yet-undecided winner of the play-offs which would be Scotland if Steve Clarke’s side qualify. The free-to-air channel will also screen Wales’s final group game against Italy.
After the group stage, the BBC has confirmed will have first choice of picks in both the round of 16 and the quarter-finals and has confirmed it would screen the initial knockout matches for both England and Wales. ITV, meanwhile, has first pick at the semi-final stage.
Niall Sloane, Director of Sport, ITV, said: “ITV will be bringing to viewers comprehensive live coverage of some of the biggest matches in what promises to be a special tournament. Euro 2020 looks set to dominate next summer with so many matches being played in Britain and Ireland and the involvement of England, Wales and hopefully more home nations.
“Our team is looking forward to offering viewers all the action and expert insight across TV, online and social media to make the most of what promises to be a memorable tournament.”
Philip Bernie, BBC Head of TV Sport, added: “This is a strong selection of games for the BBC, that takes in England and Wales’ opening fixtures, and the first two knock-out games that both these home countries would play. Away from the home nations, we’re delighted to be able to show viewers key games for some of the giants of European football.
“The BBC will once again be committed to delivering a 24/7 service to our audiences across TV, radio and online ensuring every key moment is unmissable.”
The EURO 2020 draw was made in Bucharest on 30th November but Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland can all still qualify through the play-off route. The final tournament participants will be known at the end of March.
