IMG converts rugby league contract

UK sports producer and distributor IMG Media has extended its contract with the Rugby Football League (RFL), pledging to “increase international distribution and exposure of British rugby league events.”

IMG acts as exclusive worldwide media consultant for the RFL, governing body of rugby league, and under the new deal will help it to negotiate new domestic broadcast contracts and media opportunities.

The deal covers all media rights including TV, radio, DVD, in-flight, ship-at-sea and new media, and will see IMG media distributing all Super League, Challenge Cup and International matches.

The announcement follows the appointment of IMG by The Rugby League International Federation as exclusive sales agents for international TV rights to the Rugby League World Cup 2008.

Ian Todd, president of IMG International, said: “We are confident that with IMG Media’s unparalleled worldwide sales network and expertise, and our strength and depth across a multitude of territories, that we will be able to further boost the profile of the sport internationally, making it accessible to a growing number of fans worldwide.”