Sportfive signs broadcast deal with ANO Sports in Russia for Olympics

MUMBAI: International sports marketing company Sportfive has signed a deal with ANO Sports Broadcasting in relation to media rights in Russia for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games and 2016 Olympic Games.

Created in December 2009 by RTR, Channel One and NTV PLUS, ANO Sports Broadcasting comprises the largest Russian public and private national broadcasters.

The deal with ANO Sports Broadcasting incorporates all of the main broadcasting rights for both Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016. The rights will be exploited over a number of platforms, including free-to-air television, internet, mobile and radio, amongst others.

With Russia as host country for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, ANO Sports Broadcasting intends to provide significant coverage of Sochi 2014. Live action and programming will be made accessible to viewers across the country, using multiple television channels and media platforms. The consortium?s free-to-air television channels, Channel One and Russia 1, will broadcast the key events, with further coverage offered on Russia 2 and Russia 24. There will be additional coverage on numerous pay television channels and services, as well as content transmitted via the internet, mobile and national radio.

Commenting on the agreement, ANO Sports Broadcasting CEO Vasily Kiknadze said, "By signing this agreement we have taken on the responsibility of providing top quality coverage of the greatest global sports event, which will be eagerly awaited by millions of Russian fans and television audiences. Our team, which will work in close cooperation with RTR, Channel One and NTV PLUS, are prepared to rise to this exciting challenge."

Sportfive International CEO Shaila-Ann Rao said, "We are delighted to have concluded this deal for Russia with ANO Sports Broadcasting, representing the principal channels RTR, Channel One and NTV PLUS. We are certain that this will provide the best possible coverage to both the Winter and Summer Games across Russia and greatly contribute to the success and excitement of the Games in Sochi."