'Let's hope we don't take these risks again' - McCoy's relief at new ITV deal

Sir Anthony McCoy has called on key industry figures to be more protective of British racing's place on mainstream television as he welcomed the news ITV has finally secured a new deal to extend its partnership with the sport until at least the end of 2023.

Following what proved to be a marathon period of negotiations, ITV has agreed a three-year contract with Racecourse Media Group, Ascot and Arena Racing Company that values racing's terrestrial rights in the region of £8 million to £9m per year, an increase on the current £7.5m fee.

A formal announcement came on Tuesday, with an ITV board meeting ratifying an agreement certain to be cheered by a sport badly in need of a fillip.