Dedicated motorsports channel Motors TV has signed a carriage deal with Arqiva that will see the channel broadcast on Freeview for the first time.
The deal will see the channel join the Freeview EPG and become accessible to viewers with a compatible internet-connected Freeview HD set-tops and integrated digital TVs.
The channel will launch on the platform on Thursday, February 27, and will be be available via channel 240.
Billed as the ‘High Speed Television Channel’, Motors TV broadcasts a wide variety of international motorsports coverage for both two and four-wheel fans.
It holds the rights to exclusive motorsports events and around 120 individual racing series are transmitted in 42 countries to 25 million homes, subscribing by cable, satellite and broadband across Europe.
Being on Connect TV enables broadcasters to reach a wider audience, combining content delivered on the terrestrial broadcast network alongside internet delivered content and present it on a single channel number in the Freeview EPG.
Viewers can access the channel like any other, by selecting the channel from the Freeview guide or by selecting the channel number from the remote.
The viewer is presented with a full screen picture with additional information such as programme name, start / end time and a synopsis – all displayed in a mini-overlay.
Frederic Viger, Head of Programming and Acquisitions at Motors TV, said: “We’re delighted to be joining the Freeview family through Arqiva’s Connect TV.
“Scores of motor sport fans will now have access to the widest and most diverse range of live, delayed and highlights programming that features both international and domestic championships.
“It was something that prospective viewers had been calling for and I’d like to think that we’ve responded to their wishes.
“The proliferation of internet-connected television made this a very attractive platform.”
Russ Armstrong, Director of Hybrid TV, Digital Platforms at Arqiva said: “Motors TV is a brand that understands their audience and the various nuances between devices and platforms their audience engage on.
“Providing their content on the Freeview platform allows new viewers to discover their channel.
“Great content is as popular as ever and through Connect TV we’re working with broadcasters to ensure a seamless delivery of their channels.”
Motors TV has been broadcasting in the UK since 2001 and is already available on Sky and Virgin Media platforms.
Forthcoming coverage in 2014 includes regular highlights from the FIA World Rally Championship, which it holds joint rights with alongside BT Sport and ITV Sport.
There is also live action from the FIA World Endurance Championship, V8 Supercars in Australia, European Formula 3, NASCAR Nationwide Series as well as FIM endurance and trials racing.
For further details of Motors TV’s coverage, visit the channel’s official website.
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