MP Obese-Jecty Sparks Debate Over Loss of Free Cycling Coverage in UK
MP Ben Obese-Jecty has sparked a debate in the UK Parliament about the loss of free-to-air cycling coverage. He believes this move will limit the sport's visibility and popularity, especially with the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ in the UK set to be exclusive to Amazon Prime Video.
Obese-Jecty's concerns were raised following the closure of Eurosport and cycling's shift to premium channel TNT Sports, which saw a 343% price increase. He described the situation as a 'metaphor for the crisis' in UK professional cycling.
Obese-Jecty was inspired to take up cyclo-cross after watching Mathieu van der Poel race on Eurosport, highlighting the importance of free-to-air coverage for growing the sport's fanbase. However, Scott Young, WBD Sports Europe's senior vice president, has stated that free-to-air live cycling is not on the broadcaster's 'road map'.
The debate in Parliament has been sparked, but there is little guarantee the government will take action. Cycling fans in the UK face a paywall for major events like the Tour de France, with the 2027 Grand Départ in the UK set to be exclusive to Amazon Prime Video.
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