The WRC audience is growing

The number of WRC viewers increased by 10 million between 2006 and 2007 according to the latest figures revealed by the commercial division of the World Rally Championship.

The latest statistics show that the total audience for the WRC has increased by 20% over the past five years to reach 816 million in 2007.

International Sportsworld Communicators (ISC), the holder of the commercial rights to the WRC, has released additional statistics showing the growing popularity of the WRC over the same period.

Over the twelve months of 2007, the number of programs dedicated to the WRC increased by 40% for a total of 12,445, a result that has quadrupled in five years. The WRC is broadcast in 180 countries with more than 250 different channels.

Countries hosting new WRC events have experienced significant growth. RTE in Ireland and RTP in Portugal gained 206% and 443%, respectively.

The new broadcasts also provide a wider audience in other countries. In Sweden, SVT gains 772%, and a new contract with Rai in Italy allows for a 49% increase.

« The latest statistics are a tremendous reflection of the growing interest in the WRC in an increasingly challenging market », explains Simon Long, Chief Executive of ISC. « It is a testament to the enthusiasm and creativity of the WRC. We can look forward to another year of development. We will continue to work to promote the WRC to an ever-wider community. »