ESPN’s 3D coverage of 2011 FA Cup Final confirmed on Sky 3D

ESPN and Sky have confirmed the rumours and added to their 3D content syndication relationship with the announcement that this year’s ESPN 3D production of the FA Cup Final, between Manchester City and Stoke City, will be shown live in 3D on Sky 3D.

ESPN’s 3D coverage of the Final – between 2.30pm and after the presentation of the trophy to the winning team – will be part of a multi-faceted FA Cup Final day that also includes 12 hours of FA Cup programming on ESPN and ESPN HD. Like the ESPN and ESPN HD coverage, ESPN’s 3D coverage on Sky 3D will be commercial-free from 2.30pm until after the trophy presentation.

Sky World subscribers with a Sky+HD box and a 3DTV will be able to watch the 2011 FA Cup Final in 3D. It will also be available in the more than 1500 Sky 3D pubs nationwide.

The 3D sports syndication agreement follows collaboration between ESPN 3D and Sky 3D to deliver coverage of ESPN’s Winter X Games 15 in February. The two companies will continue to explore additional ESPN 3D events that can be delivered to Sky 3D customers, with further announcements due shortly.

ESPN 3D coverage of this year’s FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium will be directed and designed by ESPN, with ESPN punditry, commentary, studio and on-screen graphics.

“ESPN is extremely proud to have been at the forefront of the development of 3D sports coverage, and are very excited to work with other companies like Sky that are leading the way as well,” said Murray Barnett, vice president , ESPN Media Distribution. “Sports have proven to be a driver for technology and innovation repeatedly through the years, and that continues today with 3D TV. Bringing ESPN 3D’s production of great events like the FA Cup Final the Winter X Games and more to fans on Sky 3D will help showcase the new dimension that technology has made possible.”

John Cassy, Channel Director, Sky 3D added: “Sky’s 3D story continues at pace. Working with high quality channel partners such as ESPN means that we can continue to extend the choice of high quality 3D content for customers. With Sky Sports continuing to break new ground, and with the addition of the best of EPSN’s live 3D coverage, Sky’s customers are enjoying the richest 3D experience available.”