Sunset+Vine confirms BT Sport contract extension to end of season 2018

Sunset+Vine has been awarded a two-year contract extension by BT Sport which takes its preferred production partner status for live football and rugby coverage to the end of season 2018. The contract, which initially ran for a three-year period from 2013, has been extended with over a year of the existing term remaining.

In terms of football, the new extended contract means that Sunset+Vine will now produce BT Sport’s Premier League, FA Cup (from 3rd round), UEFA Europa League (for season 2015/2016 only) and the SPFL games until the end of the present contract in 2017. The company will also continue to produce a number of studio shows such as the European Football Show and Fletch and Sav.

For rugby, the new deal encompasses all of BT Sport’s rights including the Aviva Premiership, European Champions Cup, European Challenge Cup and Rugby 7’s. This includes the support programming Rugby Tonight and Rugby Tonight Extra.

Jeff Foulser, chairman of Sunset+Vine, commented: “The original contract with BT Sport was transformational for Sunset+Vine’s business and this extension is a real vote of confidence in our people. We have a terrific relationship with BT Sport and we are delighted that they recognise the quality of output that we are delivering – and are backing us in the long term. We are totally committed to delivering the very best sporting action and entertainment for rights which they represent.”

Simon Green, head of BT Sport, said: “I am extremely pleased that we will be continuing our successful partnership with Sunset+Vine. They have been a valued partner from day one, bringing great creativity. We are impressed with their commitment to delivering high quality productions that not only benefit our business, but are also highly entertaining for our viewers.”