Macquarie Radio Network will retain commercial AM radio rights to Rugby League (NRL) broadcasts for the next three years. Triple M has also won the rights to broadcast Monday night matches, but a storm of controversy has broken out over the Monday night matches, which may not be heard in regional Australia.
The NRL granted Monday night rights to Triple M so it could reach a younger audience in the cities. The Caralis Supernetwork also bid for rights, offering a network of 33 stations and 33 translators in regional areas, but not enough young listeners to 2SM, which is not surveyed.
When the NRL gave the rights to Triple M the country listeners missed out, causing a tirade of irate callers to the 2SM sports show on the weekend.
The commercial agreements are in addition to the existing ABC broadcast agreements, which remain unchanged, taking broadcasts to regional Australia and other state capitals.
Next year’s Radio schedule will include live Friday night matches for the first time on both 2GB and ABC Radio.
The new Monday night timeslot will be broadcast exclusively on radio via Triple M, with Triple M Sydney broadcasting all Monday night games and Triple M Brisbane all Monday night games featuring the Broncos, Cowboys and Titans.
NRL Chief Executive David Gallop says:
“We are looking to some exciting changes in match scheduling in 2006 and that will benefit radio listeners. Through 2GB, the Macquarie Radio Network has built a large and loyal Rugby League audience and it is a major asset for the game.
“Clearly it is also an asset for 2GB and the rights fee reflects both that and the value they have put on the broadcasts. In a commercial world where the game needs to maximize both proven audience numbers and financial return it was a compelling proposition.
“Along with the strength of the ABC through its Sydney, Brisbane and regional networks we have ensured a wide reach of the game and a choice of listening options.”
Gallop says the addition of an FM station for Monday night football is “another important step” and he is looking forward to building on what has already been a successful partnership with Triple M over a number of years with programs like the Dead Set Legends.