ESPN secures 12-year extension of Rose Bowl rights

MUMBAI: Espn has reached a 12-year extension with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, the Big Ten Conference and the Pac-12 Conference, to continue the company?s long-standing relationship with the Rose Bowl Game, one of college football?s most popular events.

The agreement, which begins in January 2015, will include rights to the annual Rose Bowl Game across Espn?s platforms through 2026. Each year, the game will be played 1 January and will feature the champions from the Big Ten and Pac-12.

Whatever is determined to be the exact post-season bowl rotation as part of the future format, Espn will have the rights to the Rose Bowl Game each year. The previous eight-year Rose Bowl deal has two more seasons remaining (2013 Rose Bowl Game, 2014 Rose Bowl Game and 2014 BCS National Championship) within the current post-season structure. Espn (or ABC) has televised the Rose Bowl Game since 1989.

Espn will showcase the Rose Bowl Game on television, Espn Radio, Espn Mobile TV and on smartphones, tablets, online and on Xbox LIVE via WatchEspn. Additionally, Espn has secured rights to distribute the Rose Bowl Game on Espn 3D and around the world through Espn International.

?The Rose Bowl Game is one of sport?s most meaningful and celebrated events. Extending our relationship long term with such a prestigious brand will play a significant role in the way fans continue to define ESPN ? as the leading destination for college football all year long," said Espn President John Skipper.