Alongside the WEC’s media rights partner Infront, the new five-year agreement includes exclusive 24 Hours of Le Mans coverage in more than 50 markets in Europe and North America. Record nine-time Le Mans champion Tom Kristensen will continue in expert role with renewed Eurosport partnership.
Through Discovery’s portfolio of motorsport brands and channels, the partnership comprises coverage from every round of the FIA WEC including qualifying, available live and on-demand for viewers in more than 100 markets across Europe, North America and Asia.
Eurosport, Discovery’s leading multi-sport brand, will provide exclusive coverage of 24 Hours of Le Mans - motorsport’s oldest race – across its channels and digital platforms in more than 50 markets across Europe*. Discovery’s MotorTrend App and MotorTrend TV will show exclusive coverage for US viewers with the action available on Velocity television and streaming on the MotorTrend App in Canada. Discovery’s recently launched global streaming service discovery+ will also screen the race via Eurosport and MotorTrend TV in available markets.
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest: "This major announcement is great news for Endurance, FIA WEC and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The extensive coverage offered by Discovery will allow fans of the world to follow the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which will see the Hypercars challenge each other on the track for the first time on the Sarthe track. The future of Endurance looks bright and we are very happy to be able to count on a loyal partner. to ensure broadcasting. "
Trojan Paillot, VP Rights Acquisitions and Syndication, Eurosport said: “The 24 Hours of Le Mans is steeped in history as one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events and is a race that forms a key part of our live motorsport offering for fans.
“Combining our deep sports expertise and storytelling ability with Discovery’s global scale, we’re pleased our renewed agreement with Infront will see us continue to screen the best motorsport events to millions, further expanding the reach of Le Mans and the FIA WEC to the widest possible audience.”
Frédéric Lequien, FIA WEC CEO, added: “It is fantastic that the WEC will be shown in more than 100 markets and territories as part of this new broadcast deal with Discovery. As we are set to welcome a host of global manufacturers over the next couple of years in our new Hypercar category, it’s important to have increased visibility and we are confident we can achieve this thanks to Discovery’s diverse portfolio of motorosport brands and channels.”
The next round of the FIA WEC will be staged at Monza in Italy (16-18 July), with the 89th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans to take place the following month (21-22 August).