BBC continues coverage of RFL Ladbrokes Challenge Cup

The Rugby Football League (RFL), the governing body has confirmed that it has agreed a new five-year deal with the BBC to continue televising the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup and highlights of the First Utility Super League.

The four-year deal agreed between the RFL and the BBC in 2012 still had another 12 months to run, but the latest contract will ensure the oldest and most prestigious knock-out competition will remain on terrestrial television until at least 2020.

RFL chief executive Nigel Wood said: “The Challenge Cup has a rich heritage and I am delighted that we have agreed a deal with the BBC that ensures one of the major national sporting events of the year will continue to be watched by millions of fans across the country.”

As well as the Wembley final, ties in the sixth round, quarter-finals and semi-finals will be shown as part of the contract.

Bookmaker Ladbrokes had announced marketing partnership with the RFL to become the title sponsor of the Challenge Cup in January of this year. The extension of BBC highlights will see Ladbrokes gain additional coverage in the sport of Rugby League.