BBC at risk of losing major sports tournament in huge broadcast shakeup amid fears it will leave free-to-air TV
THE BBC is at risk of losing a major sports tournament in a huge broadcast shakeup.
The national broadcaster shows a number of top competitions on live TV, including Wimbledon and the FA Cup.
As a result, these events are free to watch for the public.
But there are now doubts over one major tournament.
And it has even raised fears over the future of free-to-air TV sport.
According to the Mail, the future of the Six Nations looks uncertain.
The competition sees reigning champs Ireland, England, Wales, Scotland, France and Italy compete for the coveted trophy each year.
And the latest edition will be split between the BBC and fellow free broadcaster ITV.
However, their deal to show the Six Nations expires in March.
It means the tournament is available to new bidders, all of whom require a subscription.
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TNT Sports is said to be a frontrunner and are already experimenting with rugby after gaining the rights to the autumn series.
A deal for them could yet involve the BBC too, as they recently agreed to split coverage of the FA Cup.
Elsewhere, Sky Sports may go back in after broadcasting England rugby matches during the 90s.
While they still show the Rugby Championship and have the rights to next summer’s Lions tour of Australia.
Amazon Prime Video chiefs have dipped their toes into live sport with big success and now have part-rights to Premier League and Champions League football.
Elsewhere, Apple TV could potentially join the party too.
And it remains to be seen where the future of the Six Nations lies following the next edition.