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acing Queensland has confirmed a new 10-year broadcast partnership with Sky Racing, for Queensland’s domestic and international media rights.

The deal has reportedly been in the works for the past 12 months, with Racing Queensland undertaking extensive market testing before the deal was finalised, which includes a financial boost for the state’s thoroughbred, greyhound, and harness clubs.

As part of the deal, there will be enhanced digital coverage and increased distribution opportunities, with the potential for bookmakers to broadcast Queensland racing events on their digital platforms, in a tri-code deal that is a first of its kind among Australia’s major racing jurisdictions.

Racing Queensland chairman, Steve Wilson, said the new deal helps secure the future of the racing industry.

“The Queensland racing industry has laid the foundations for a prosperous future by signing a new long-term agreement with Sky Racing,” Wilson said.

“There were a number of outcomes we were determined to achieve, most notable increased distribution, showcasing and revenue, and that’s exactly what we’ve been able to secure for our clubs,” he said.

Tabcorp managing director of wagering and media, Adam Rytenskild, said this new deal just adds further value to the already decades-long partnership between Sky Racing and Racing Queensland.

“This agreement extends a decades-long relationship that we have with racing in Queensland,” Rytenskild said.

“Sky broadcasts 12,000 Queensland thoroughbred, greyhound, and harness races each year, taking Queensland racing into TAB venues, punter apps, homes and international audiences across up to 65 countries.

“We look forward to Sky’s extensive network continuing to champion Queensland racing action and its stories,” he said.

Racing Queensland CEO, Brendan Parnell, added the new media rights partnership was another step in the right direction in a difficult time.

“Having agreed to enhanced and expanded coverage with Sky, we look forward to exposing Queensland thoroughbred, greyhound, and harness racing to new audiences across the nation and the globe,” Parnell said.

“Given the challenging environment we continue to operate in, the Queensland racing industry has secured a particularly positive outcome,” he said.