RTL secures exclusive rights to broadcast Berlin Marathon

Prominent German commercial broadcaster RTL has secured exclusive coverage rights for the prestigious Berlin Marathon, sealing a lucrative three-year deal.

Scheduled for September 29 in the German capital, this year’s edition signifies a significant milestone as it marks RTL’s return to broadcasting the Marathon since 2010.

The exclusive agreement has been reached between RTL and the event’s organiser, SCC Events, heralding a new era of coverage.

In previous years, domestic viewership of the event has been facilitated by various broadcasters, including Eurosport. However, RTL’s acquisition of exclusive rights underscores their commitment to delivering premium sports content to their audience.

Celebrating its 50th edition, the Berlin Marathon is expected to attract approximately 50,000 participants.

The Berlin Marathon has the distinction of being recognised as one of just six races with the title World Marathon Major, alongside famed events in Tokyo, Boston, London, Chicago and New York. Berlin also boasts a reputation as the world’s fastest marathon, with four of the top nine men’s times and the women’s world record achieved in the race.

Last December, RTL entered into a two-year partnership with Sky Deutschland, a major player in German pay-TV. This partnership extends beyond the Berlin Marathon, encompassing a diverse range of sports rights including motor racing and football.

As part of this collaboration, RTL will broadcast seven Formula 1 races live on free-to-air TV during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Additionally, fans of English soccer’s Premier League can look forward to catching one live game every week on RTL.