Rugby league commits to keeping Challenge Cup final on free-to-air

Rugby league is one of a number of sports who have re-committed to an agreement which keeps their major events on free-to-air television.

Cricket, football, golf, tennis and rugby union, as well as rugby league have re-signed the voluntary code, which was first set up in 2009.

This means that the Challenge Cup final will be offered to free-to-air broadcasters rather than pay-TV operators.

The agreement also commits governing bodies to allocating 30 percent of their broadcast deals to grassroots projects.

The code of conduct was established by the Sport and Recreation Alliance, which is an umbrella organisation consisting of more than 300 bodies.

It is overseen by the Sports Broadcast Monitoring Committee, which is chaired by former Channel 4 executive Sir David Scott.

“The code makes the best sporting events available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Scott.

“It also makes clear the link between the success of these blue-riband events and a healthy participation base.

“In the last available financial year, sports bodies that are full signatories reinvested at least £135m in grassroots sport.”