BBC to broadcast UK athletics meets

The BBC has agreed a five-year rights deal with Athletics Ventures. 

This will see the broadcaster air events such as the London Athletics Meet (Diamond League), UK Athletics Championships and UK Athletics Indoor Championships across BBC TV, iPlayer and BBC Sport digital platforms until 2030. 

The BBC had previously been agreeing deals with the competitions on a year-by-year basis, most recently in 2024. 

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport says: “Athletics holds a special place in British sport, and with so much incredible talent in Team GB and internationally right now, the competition has never been tougher. It’s fantastic that fans will be able to enjoy UK events like the amazing London Athletics Meet across our digital platforms and on free-to-air TV for another five years – no doubt we’ll see even more stars emerge.” 

UKA CEO Jack Buckner said: “This five-year deal is testament to our long-term vision and the proven appetite for athletics in this country. In an increasingly competitive sports market where broadcast opportunities can be short-term or uncertain, this extended partnership with BBC Sport provides exciting continuity for the sport, our athletes, and our fans.  

“The BBC remains the gold standard in reach and coverage, and this agreement ensures British athletics will continue to have a strong, consistent platform to engage millions of viewers across the UK.”

The UK events join fellow athletics competitions the World Athletics Championships, European Athletics Championships, Diamond League and London Marathon on the BBC.