MUMBAI: The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) have formed a multi-service partnership covering the media rights on all platforms for the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games, the Rio 2016 Paralympic Summer Games and various other para-sport events.

Under the new terms, the EBU will exploit the media rights for all EBU territories, excluding Russia for Sochi 2014 and the UK for both Paralympic Games. Already 27 EBU Members have committed to show the Rio 2016 Paralympics ? an unprecedented number so far in advance of any Games.

In addition, Eurovision, operated by the EBU, will provide the IPC with extra services, such as production, distribution and onsite activities, to enhance the coverage of IPC Championships and test events, making the EBU a committed partner in the furtherance of the Paralympic Movement.

IPC President Sir Philip Craven said, ?This agreement is a major statement of intent about the growth of the Paralympic Movement and the growing appeal of the Paralympic Games. London 2012 was broadcast to over 100 countries, reaching a cumulative global TV audience of 3.8 billion, all of whom I am sure were left inspired and excited by what they saw. To have secured so many territories through the EBU for Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016 so far out from both Games is fantastic news and I?d like to personally thank both Organising Committees for their support.?

EBU Director General Ingrid Deltenre said, ?The Paralympic Movement ? like public service broadcasting ? is about inclusivity and universality. Sport reaches more people through the free-to-air channels of our Members, so the EBU and the IPC are ideal partners, given our respective values and missions. We are proud to be the IPC?s broadcast partner, and the EBU relishes the chance to help in the growing success of the Paralympic Movement.?