Sky and ITV to launch 24-hour UK e-sports channel

UK pay-television broadcaster Sky and commercial broadcaster ITV will link up to acquire minority stakes in a new 24-hour channel dedicated to coverage of e-sports in the UK.

Due to launch in the sports section of Sky’s electronic programme guide, ‘Ginx eSports TV’ will offer coverage of various competitive gaming tournaments such as the ‘ELeague’ and ‘Face IT esports Championship Series’.

Although details of the shareholdings that Sky and ITV will acquire have not been disclosed, reports in the UK have stated that Ginx eSports TV will base its studios in central London.

In a statement, Ginx chief Michiel Bakker said the channel aimed to give e-sports “significant mainstream TV exposure” in the UK, which will help complement the online streaming of gaming.

Bakker added: “I am also delighted about the prospect of Sky and ITV joining our roster.

“It goes without saying that the combined media footprint and expertise of both presents a significant opportunity for us to make a bigger impact, faster.”

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