The BBC has applied for Ofcom consent to broadcast exclusive live coverage of the Open Golf Championship 2014 on BBC1 and BBC2 and their interactive streams. The tournament is due to take place between 13 and 20 July 2014.
This is a Group B Listed Event which means that the rights to broadcast highlights or deferred coverage must have been offered to broadcasters providing services in the other category from BBC1 and BBC2, as specified in the Broadcasting Act 1996. The rules which apply are set out in the Code on Sports and Other Listed and Designated Events.
In the case of the Open Golf Championship, Ofcom understands that the rights have been offered to broadcasters in the other category which are likely to be interested, and that so far none have taken up the opportunity. The BBC notes that there will be live coverage of the event on Radio 5Live.
Ofcom is now inviting such broadcasters, and any other interested parties, to comment on the BBC’s request. Comments should be sent to Jacopo Genovese, Ofcom, Riverside House, 2a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HA (email: Jacopo.Genovese@ofcom.org.uk) by 1 July 2014. Unless confidentiality is requested, all comments will be available to view on Ofcom’s website after the consultation has closed.