Government Gives Paralympic Games ‘crown Jewel’ Status
The Summer and Winter Paralympics have been added to the UK’s ‘Crown Jewels’ list of sporting events, ensuring both competitions will remain available on free-to-air TV for the foreseeable future, with Channel 4 currently holding the rights.
Coverage of the Summer Paralympic Games has increased dramatically over the last four editions, rising from an audience of 10.6 million in Athens 2004 to 31.6 million at Rio 2016 – almost a 200% increase.
At London 2012, Channel 4 dedicated 500 hours of broadcast time across its platforms, with this increasing to 700 hours for Rio 2016 and a commitment to increase this further still for Tokyo 2020.
The free-to-air broadcaster has also welcomed Toyota and BP as sponsors of its Tokyo 2020 Paralympic coverage.
Mike Sharrock, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association said: “The Paralympic Games is the most inspirational sporting event in the world and London 2012 clearly demonstrated the British public’s passion for watching our incredible athletes represent Paralympics GB.
“We have been advocating for some time that the Paralympics Games should be treated in the same way as the Olympic Games and always be available on free-to-air television for the nation to enjoy. As we build towards Tokyo 2020 we are delighted this has now been added to the list of sporting ‘Crown Jewels’ as it marks a significant moment for a nation that is proud to be the home of Paralympic sport.”
Sports Minister Nigel Adams said: “The Paralympic Games is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar, as the country comes together to support our world-class Paralympic athletes. So it is only right that the event is available on free-to-air television for all to enjoy.
“Adding the Games to the ‘Crown Jewels’ list of major sporting events guarantees it the platform it deserves every four years that will help inspire the sporting stars of the future.
“I am proud that the UK is the birthplace of the Paralympic movement which has done so much in shifting attitudes and raising awareness on disability.”
