The next Rugby World Cup may be headed to subscription television

The battle for Rugby World Cup rights is upon us.

The last Rugby World Cup is still a painfully recent memory but the focus for the next event in three years is already beginning. The UK TV rights for the next tournament could be put bought by non-terrestrial broadcasters. According to Walesonline, there is a growing unease that a change in rights ownership could see fans miss out if three major companies hoover up most of the rights. Friday is the deadline for any interested broadcasters to make known their bids for the various TV rights deals, but it is expected that Sky, BT Sport and beIN Sports will carve up much of the action between them. World Rugby saw huge exposure for the sport last year thanks to some shock results such as Japan’s win over South Africa, as well as the All-Blacks making it all the way to the final and retaining their crown.