NBC Sports is doubling down on its commitment to horse racing, extending its exclusive U.S. media rights to Royal Ascot through 2028 as part of a new multi-year agreement with Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. The deal ensures American audiences will continue to experience one of the sport’s most prestigious global events across NBC’s linear and digital platforms.
NBC Sports has televised the Royal Meeting since 2017, and the renewed partnership guarantees continued live coverage of all five days of racing each June. More than 20 hours of coverage will air across NBC and Peacock, with streaming available throughout the week and NBC simulcasting Saturday’s finale.
Beginning in 2026, the network plans to expand its presentation to spotlight Royal Ascot races designated as part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series. Those races serve as “Win and You’re In” qualifiers for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, offering a direct connection between two of the sport’s marquee events.
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Royal Ascot to showcase their incredible racing and pageantry each June, while connecting the event to the Breeders’ Cup World Championships,” said Gary Quinn, Vice President of Partnerships and General Manager of Owned Properties for NBC Sports. “The Breeders’ Cup is the focus of the sport as the season concludes each fall.”
Ascot Racecourse CEO Felicity Bernard praised the partnership’s success and its growing international reach. “Showcasing Royal Ascot around the world is so important for our brand, so we are thrilled to extend our successful partnership with NBC Sports,” Bernard said. “The team does an amazing job of bringing the stories to life and sharing the magic of the week with American viewers.”
The Breeders’ Cup also welcomed the expanded collaboration.
“Royal Ascot is one of the sport’s most storied stages, and we’re proud to expand our collaboration with such a globally revered event and our partners at NBC Sports,” said Drew Fleming, President and CEO of Breeders’ Cup Limited. “At its core, the Breeders’ Cup is about bringing the world together through a shared passion for Thoroughbred racing.”
Royal Ascot remains one of the world’s most prominent racing events, attracting elite horses from across the globe to compete for more than $13 million in prize money. The five-day meet features 35 races, including eight at the sport’s highest Group One level.
NBC Sports’ Royal Ascot coverage complements its growing horse racing portfolio, which also includes exclusive broadcast rights for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Breeders’ Cup World Championships, and Pegasus World Cup Invitational Series.
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