The 60-year relationship between the BBC and the British Open "will come to an end next year after the announcement that Sky Sports has bought the exclusive rights to the tournament" beginning in '17, according to Andrew Miller of the LONDON TIMES. Sky will pay more than $22.7M (all figures U.S.) annually "in a five-year tie-up." That is "more than double" the $10.6M a year that the BBC "offered in the last round of negotiations" in '10. The BBC is "likely to show highlights of the tournament, a mandatory requirement" under U.K. law for major sporting events. Outgoing R&A CEO Peter Dawson said, "The way people consume live sport is changing significantly and this new agreement ensures fans have a range of options for enjoying the Championship on television and through digital channels.” But Miller notes the deal was "met with criticism from leading British golfers, including Lee Westwood, who branded the move 'an absolute disgrace'" (LONDON TIMES, 2/4). GOLFWEEK's Alistair Tait noted the BBC "will be left with just the final two rounds" for two majors -- The Masters and Ricoh Women’s British Open. However, the BBC "will continue radio coverage of the British Open over its Radio 5 live station." Criticism "will come from those who feel the deal goes against the R&A’s mission to grow the game" (GOLFWEEK.com, 2/3).
A MOVE NOT WITHOUT CONTROVERSY: The GUARDIAN's Owen Gibson notes the move is "expected to intensify concern from some" in the game about the "impact on declining participation figures and reopen the debate about the crown jewels list of events protected for free-to-air TV" (GUARDIAN, 2/4). REUTERS' Martyn Herman noted BBC commentator Peter Alliss, whose voice "has become synonymous with the tournament, led the chorus of disapproval." Alliss: "It saddens me because I have been working since 1961 but it really saddens me because all golfers throughout Britain and Europe will miss the BBC. I don't think there will be a golfer that won't be bitterly disappointed at the news today." But the decision "was welcomed by former British Open champion Tony Jacklin." He said Sky is "dedicated to the sport." Jacklin: "I've worked with their team for the last three years and I think they've done a great job for golf and for the European Tour" (REUTERS, 2/3).
