Sky Sport NZ Joins ASBK As International Broadcast Partner

New Zealand race fans will be treated to live coverage of one of the world’s most exciting superbike championships, thanks to Sky Sport joining as exclusive broadcast partner in New Zealand for the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), starting this weekend at Wakefield Park.

As well as being able to watch each ASBK round live on Sky Sport, New Zealand customers will also be able to relive their favourite moments via the Sky On-Demand service.

The Sky Sport NZ coverage will utilise the same high-definition (HD) content as that provided to all ASBK TV broadcast partners, ensuring New Zealand fans will be entertained with sensational racing presented by ASBK TV Host Riana Crehan and expert commentary team of Steve Martin and Phil Harlum.

Sky CEO Sophie Moloney said the ASBK will join Sky Sports’ existing Superbike programming, which has been a hit with customers.

“Superbikes continue to be one of our most popular motorsports,” Moloney said.

“Sky is absolutely delighted to add the Australian Superbike Championship to the World Superbikes and British Superbikes competitions for Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now customers.

“It’s exciting to see Kiwi riders like Damon Rees and Shane Richardson in action offshore. Recently described as two of New Zealand’s most complete riders, they are setting an example for other Kiwi competitors. We’ll be looking out for developing talent coming through in the racing across ‘the ditch.’”

Motorcycling Australia CEO Peter Doyle said the New Zealand market is important for the ASBK and identified the Sky Sport deal as having multiple benefits.

“The new TV deal is obviously a massive win for fans in New Zealand, but it’s also valuable for the New Zealand competitors racing in the ASBK,” Doyle said.

“It gives them another platform to promote themselves to a local audience, maximising the value they can provide to NZ-based commercial partners.”

Sky Sport is the latest to join an already extensive array of ASBK broadcast partners. In Australia, the championship is televised on SBS, Fox Sports and KAYO Sports, while Fox Sports Asia and Eurosport broadcast the championship around the world.

“The Sky Sport deal further reinforces the ASBK as an internationally-recognised championship, which is highly-regarded all over the world for its professionalism and entertainment,” Doyle concluded.

New Zealand ASBK fans will not have to wait long for their first taste of live ASBK action, with Sky Sport coverage commencing at this weekend’s third round of the Championship at Wakefield Park Raceway. Check your Sky TV guide for local times.