SIS pens rights extension with German Tote

Betting services supplier Sports Information Services (SIS) has signed a multi-year extension to its existing rights agreement with the German Tote.

The agreement will enable SIS to include German racing in all of its global services including retail and digital 24/7 channels and when sold as standalone content on a 'watch and bet' or 'bet and watch' basis for digital use.

The deal initially covers all German thoroughbred racing, with the option to also include harness racing in the future.

German horse racing is currently suspended as a result of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, but could be up and running as early as 1 May.

“We are delighted to extend our relationship more deeply with the German Tote for inclusion of their high-quality racing in all our services,” SIS product director Paul Witten said. “This content sits very well within our overall portfolio, and its availability in the near future is sure to fill a significant gap for operators seeking betting content to fill any void whilst domestic racing is still in lockdown.”

German Tote chief executive Riko Luiking added: “SIS has proven to be a strong partner for German Tote, and we are very pleased to extend our relationship even further.”

The extended deal comes after SIS last month announced that the suspension of almost all live racing and closure of retail betting shops worldwide as a result of the coronavirus forced it to shut down all non-essential services and furlough a significant number of staff.

SIS said it had taken the step to protect its long-term future, and ensure it would be able to resume normal service for customers and partners when appropriate.

However, the supplier committed to continuing to provide online content to operators – where available – during the shut-down, though delivery of all retail solutions have been suspended.