Keep Olympic Games TV coverage on free-to-air television
Keep Olympic Games TV coverage on free-to-air television
Why this petition matters
"The important thing in life is not to triumph but to compete. The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well. All sports for all people." Pierre de Coubertin - founder of the IOC
"We can only go faster, we can only aim higher, we can only become stronger, if we stand together – in solidarity." Thomas Bach - incumbent IOC President (Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony)
The Olympic Games are not just about sports –they are one of the largest festivals of peace in the world.
We need your help!
What has happened? In 2015, the IOC licenced all Olympic television rights within the whole of Europe to pay-per-view broadcaster Discovery (who own Eurosport). Since then the live coverage available on free-to-air television services has gradually reduced throughout the region. If you’re wondering why the BBC coverage has been so poor, this is why.
What does this mean? It means that many European residents no longer have sufficient access to live coverage of the Olympic Games. Seeing the likes of Kristian Blummenfelt triumphing in the Triathlon will now only be seen by those who can afford to watch it live - it means that to be inspired, entertained and comforted by the many wonderful acts of speed, strength, endurance, agility and sportsmanship now requires a position of privilege; this goes against the founding principles of the Olympic Games...and this has to stop.
How can you help? It's simple, sign this petition. Share this petition. Let's stand together, in solidarity, to let the IOC know that we've had enough of the Games being sold off to big business. Let's tell them we believe sport and fair play can unify nations. Let's tell them that human feats of excellence can inspire generations and offer hope...the world really needs hope right now! How can the Games inspire, unify and offer hope if people from all walks of life don't have access to it?
Thank you for reading and remember, together we can make a difference!
