The European Broadcasting Union, operating Eurovision, and FISA, the World Rowing Federation, have agreed a four-year renewal of all European media rights from 2013–2016.

This agreement includes the World Rowing Championships in 2013, 2014 and 2015, the annual World Rowing Cup series and the European Rowing Championships. The 2015 World Championships will serve as the Olympic Qualification for the 2016 Olympic Games, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The first event of the renewed agreement will be the opening regatta of the 2013 Samsung World Rowing Cup series, from 22 – 24 March, in Sydney.

FISA President Denis Oswald said: “Our relationship with the EBU started in the early 1980s, and it has been a long and successful one. But, as everyone knows, much has changed in the television world in recent years, particularly in the way that sports events are televised, and how their rights are exploited and distributed. In the light of these many significant changes, I am pleased to acknowledge that Eurovision has shown the flexibility and foresight to adapt to these times. I look forward to a highly collaborative and productive relationship with the EBU and their Members through to 2016.”

Eurovision Director Sports & Business Stefan Kuerten added: “FISA was the first international sports federation to join the Olympic movement, making rowing today a time-honoured mainstay of the modern Olympic Games. That FISA has once again entrusted Eurovision and the EBU Members with giving rowing’s marquee events the free-to-air exposure they deserve tells of a thriving partnership that will continue to grow in strength.”

NOTE TO EDITORS

About FISA

FISA, "Fédération Internationale des Sociétés d'Aviron" in French, or the English equivalent International Rowing Federation, is the governing body of the sport of rowing. It is empowered by its 138 member National Rowing Federations, the National Olympic Committees and the International Olympic Committee to develop, promote, present and govern the sport of rowing, worldwide.

FISA sets the rules and regulations for the practice of the sport, in all its forms (elite, adaptive, coastal and indoor), and organises sanctioned World Rowing events. It also provides advice and expertise for the organisation of rowing regattas, on coaching education and other matters relating to the sport and its development.

http://www.worldrowing.com