ITV increases BTCC live coverage

The network, which has broadcast the series since 2002, will screen at least seven hours of live coverage from each event in high definition for the first time on ITV4 HD and simultaneously on ITV4 and on the ITV Sport website.

Additionally, hour-long highlights programmes from each round will be broadcast on ITV4 and ITV1 in the week following each event, taking the championship's total TV time to 153 hours during the year.

BTCC series director Alan Gow said: "We are rightly proud of our far-reaching free-to-view digital and terrestrial broadcast programmes on ITV4 and ITV1 and excited by the addition of high definition coverage this year - it will add yet another dimension to those following the championship from home.

"ITV's ongoing and increasing commitment to live coverage not only confirms the BTCC's status as one of the UK's top national sporting attractions, but importantly provides our competitors - and those in the top class support race package - with many millions of viewers throughout the season."

Gow also confirmed that qualifying for every round of the season will be broadcast live on the ITV Sport website.