TORONTO – Bell Media and CBC/Radio-Canada confirmed Friday that they will form a broadcast partnership to bid for the Canadian media rights for the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games and the Rio 2016 Olympic Summer Games.
The announcement comes one day after Rogers Media said that it would not take part in bidding for those rights, citing scheduling conflicts and other financial priorities. Rogers Media and Bell Media will continue to partner on the broadcast of the London 2012 Olympic Games next summer.
“The Olympic Games are a premium property that requires a strong partnership in order to deliver the level of experience that Canadian viewers and advertising partners now expect,” said Bell Media president, Kevin Crull, in the announcement. “With our combined resources and experience, this strategic alliance with CBC/Radio-Canada allows us to deliver the best possible Games experience to Canadians, and ensure the legacy of the Olympic movement in this country.”
"This partnership is positive news for Canadians as it is a first and important step in renewing the Olympic tradition on all of the public broadcaster’s platforms,” said Kirstine Stewart, EVP of English Services for CBC/Radio-Canada. “With our commitment to keep offering world-class sports events, including Olympic Games, we will continue optimizing partnership opportunities like this one for the benefit of all Canadians.”
The International Olympic Committee is expected to begin the bidding process for the Canadian media rights to future Olympic Games later this year.
