Get ready for a major shift in cycling coverage in the UK and Ireland! The cycling world is about to experience a significant change, and it's a move that has sparked debate among fans.
From the end of March, cycling enthusiasts in the UK and Ireland will be tuning into HBO Max for their cycling fix. This exciting development is part of the new Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) platform, which is already available in over 100 countries worldwide.
But here's where it gets controversial... The subscription plans for HBO Max with TNT Sports remain unchanged at £30.99 per month. While the price point might seem steep, the transition to the new service is designed to be seamless. Users can log in to HBO Max using their existing Discovery+ accounts, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience.
The story behind this shift is an interesting one. In 2017, Discovery bought into Play Sports Group, the company behind the popular GCN operation on YouTube. They increased their stake in 2019 and, in 2021, acquired a 100% stake in the company for a reported £70 million.
And this is the part most people miss... Last year, Eurosport was shut down in the UK, and TNT Sports became the exclusive home of live cycling. This meant that cycling fans had to subscribe to a broader sports package, priced at £30.99 per month, which is significantly higher than the GCN+ offering.
A survey conducted by Cycling Weekly last year revealed some intriguing insights. A whopping 71% of respondents said they watched the Tour de France on ITV, and of those 1,273 people, a staggering 88% (1,120) stated they would not subscribe to TNT Sports to watch the race live in 2026. Almost half of the respondents also admitted they had never paid to watch cycling on TV.
So, what does this mean for the future of cycling coverage? Will fans embrace the change, or will they stick to their preferred platforms? The debate is sure to continue.
What are your thoughts on this development? Do you think it's a step forward or a missed opportunity? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
