MotoGP Exclusive: BBC extends MotoGP deal to end of 2013

The BBC has agreed a new contract with Dorna to screen live coverage of the MotoGP world championship until the end of the 2013 season, MCN can exclusively reveal.

An extension to the current contract has been agreed and will be formally signed imminently, ending fears that the Beeb’s shock deal to screen Formula One next year would have an impact on its MotoGP deal.

While the new deal is great news for fans that watch MotoGP on the BBC, the future of British Eurosport’s coverage remains in doubt with speculation increasing at last weekend’s Spanish GP in Jerez that Dorna won’t renew the current contract.

Dorna is desperate to get MotoGP screened on terrestrial TV in key markets like France and Germany, and is delaying a decision on Eurosport’s future while negotiations continue.

A delegation of Eurosport management attended the Jerez GP, but a final decision is not expected until later in the season.

Dorna Managing Director Manel Arroyo: “We are extending our relationship with the BBC.

“We have a contract until the end of 2009 but we are renewing because for them MotoGP is a key event. With the BBC the deal is done.”

More on this story and full Spanish GP coverage in tomorrow’s Motor Cycle News.