5 Secures Deal with TNT Sports for Tour de France Highlights: A New Era in UK Cycling Coverage
5, a UK broadcaster owned by Paramount, has secured a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery’s TNT Sports to broadcast free-TV highlights of the Tour de France. This agreement marks a shift from ITV, which previously held the rights to the prestigious cycling event. TNT Sports holds the exclusive rights to the Tour de France, as well as the Vuelta a España and Giro d’Italia, making 5 the go-to channel for cycling enthusiasts in the UK.
In the past, Channel 4 aired highlights of the Tour de France, while Eurosport (now TNT Sports) provided full coverage. ITV later took over free-to-air coverage but did not bid for the rights in the recent tender process, paving the way for TNT Sports to secure the comprehensive package. Despite the high regard for TNT’s coverage, fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the significant price increase following the rebranding of Eurosport to TNT Sports.
The competitive tender process for the rights package led to the partnership between 5 and TNT Sports, both of which are soon-to-be corporate siblings under the ownership of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, respectively. The free-TV coverage on 5 will kick off with highlights of the Tour de France’s Grand Départ from Barcelona on July 4, presented by sports presenter Rebecca Charlton.
The multiyear deal ensures that Channel 5 will have highlights of the Grand Tours until 2027, a significant year for British cycling as the Tour de France’s Grand Départ returns to the UK with stages across Scotland, England, and Wales. In addition to highlights, 5 will also provide live coverage of the Grand Départ, offering viewers a comprehensive cycling experience.
Reemah Sakaan, President of 5, expressed excitement about becoming the new free-to-air home for the prestigious cycling events, emphasizing the popularity and significance of the Grand Tours. Scott Young, EVP of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, highlighted the strategic importance of expanding reach and engaging new audiences through partnerships like this one.
Under the agreement, 5 will broadcast free-to-air highlights of the Tour de France (2026–2028), Vuelta a España (2026–2028), and Giro d’Italia (2027–2029), solidifying its position as a leading destination for cycling coverage in the UK.