The Boat Race, a long-standing event between Oxford and Cambridge Universities, will not be broadcast by the BBC this year, marking the first time in almost 100 years that the network will not air the race. Channel 4 secured the television rights for the next five years, while Times Radio will cover the event on the radio until 2028.
Since the mid-1920s, the BBC has been the traditional broadcaster of the Boat Race, initially on radio and later on television starting in 1938. However, this year’s race, scheduled for April 4, will be available through other channels.
While the BBC has previously faced interruptions in its coverage, such as ITV broadcasting the race from 2005 to 2009 and LBC holding radio rights from 2005 to 2010, this is the first time the network will not air the Boat Race in any format. The decision follows a reported lack of interest from the BBC’s sports director, Alex Kay-Jelski, who viewed the event as “elitist.”
The decline in viewership for the Boat Race in recent years, coupled with rising production costs, has contributed to the BBC’s shift in focus. Kay-Jelski, who assumed the role in 2024, has spearheaded a new strategy at the corporation, leading to the loss of rights for the Commonwealth Games and now the Boat Race.
Times Radio’s acquisition of the rights, at no cost but with a commitment to promote the event across News UK’s network, reflects the changing landscape of media consumption. Kay-Jelski emphasized the importance of being part of significant conversations even without live sports coverage, citing the success of reporting and digital content in engaging audiences.
Siobhan Cassidy, Chair of The Boat Race Company, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership with Times Radio, highlighting shared values of tradition and quality. The upcoming Boat Race on April 4 will be covered live by Times Radio, aligning with the event’s heritage and commitment to excellence.