Late last year IEC agreed a deal with the IAAF to distribute the European and African media rights for World Athletics Series events for the period 2010 to 2013, ending a 26-year relationship between the international federation and the European Broadcasting Union.
“We are delighted to be able to continue our valuable partnership with IAAF, having been loyal and committed broadcast partners of the IAAF World Athletics Series for many years,” said YLE head of sport Kari Mänty.
“Following excellent ratings from Berlin, it is clear to us that the sport of Athletics is very important to YLE and we are proud to be able to broadcast International Athletics events on YLE channels for the coming years. YLE is looking forward to start its co-operation with IAAF new commercial partner, IEC in Sports.”
IEC also announced deals with RTV in Slovenia and pay-operator Lumiere TV in Cyprus. The agreements come just weeks ahead of the IAAF World Indoor Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar, starting on March 12.
