The Seven Network has won the rights to broadcast Gaelic games on Australian free-to-air television this year.
The Irish Echo understands that the one-year deal, to be formally announced as soon as today in Dublin, will help to meet the GAA’s goal of making the codes easily accessible to fans and sports fans around the globe.
It is the first time that a network has sought and secured free-to-air rights for Ireland’s indigenous codes.
The GAA is set to announce new arrangements for both domestic and international rights both in Ireland and across the world.
Details of Seven’s coverage have yet to be confirmed but the Irish Echo has learned that coverage will be available on the 7Mate digital channel.
The extent of Seven’s planned coverage is not known at this stage but an informed source told the Irish Echo that it will run from May to September and will certainly include both the All Ireland hurling and football finals.
Setanta Sports Australia are understood to have bid for the Pay TV rights for Australia but it is not yet known if they have been successful.
The Irish Echo understands that GAA fans will also have an opportunity to stream live matches online. Details are expected to be revealed later today.
Controversy has raged in Ireland over reports that the GAA is to sell Irish television rights to British Pay TV operator Sky Sports exclusively.
This would mean, for the first time, that Irish GAA fans have to subscribe to a Pay TV platform to access matches.
More details about GAA coverage in Australia to come…