Olympic Games coming home to CBC/Radio-Canada - IOC awards broadcaster Canadian broadcast rights for Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016

LONDON, England, Aug. 1, 2012 /CNW/ - The International Olympic Committee today announced that CBC/Radio-Canada has been awarded the Canadian broadcast rights for the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games and the Rio 2016 Olympic Summer Games.  As part of the agreement, the two parties entered into a new partnership that is unique to Canadian Olympic broadcasts. Canadians will have full access to all the excitement of the Olympic Games wherever and however they choose to cheer on Canada's best athletes.

In making the announcement from London, CBC/Radio-Canada President Hubert Lacroix said, "This is excellent news for Canadians across the country who will once again experience the Olympic tradition with their public broadcaster. We've promised Canadians signature events on all our platforms that create opportunities to connect with each other and the country. I can't think of a greater opportunity to create those connections and generate pride than showcasing the Olympic Games and the performances of our own Canadian athletes."

IOC President Jacques Rogge said, "Canada is a sports loving nation and Canadians are big fans of the Olympic Games. CBC/Radio-Canada has a wealth of experience in broadcasting sports and the Olympic Games and we are pleased that we will once again be joining forces with them in the future."

For almost 60 years, and on 19 different occasions, CBC/Radio-Canada has broadcast the Olympic Games, more recently with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Summer Games.

About CBC/Radio-Canada

CBC/Radio-Canada is Canada's national public broadcaster and one of its largest cultural institutions. The Corporation is a leader in reaching Canadians on new platforms and delivers a comprehensive range of radio, television, Internet, and satellite-based services. Deeply rooted in the regions, CBC/Radio-Canada is the only domestic broadcaster to offer diverse regional and cultural perspectives in English, French and eight Aboriginal languages.

SOURCE: CBC/RADIO-CANADA

Chuck Thompson
Head of Media Relations
CBC/Radio-Canada, English Services
416-205-3747
[email protected]