CBC to remain Canada's home for Olympic coverage through 2032

The Olympics are set to travel from France to Australia over the next decade. In between, there might even be a stop in Canada.

And throughout it all, CBC and Radio-Canada will remain Canada's home for Olympic coverage.

CBC/Radio-Canada announced a new partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday that features exclusive Olympic broadcast rights for the network through the 2032 Brisbane Games. The current deal had been set to expire at the conclusion of Paris 2024.

Chris Wilson, executive director of CBC Sports, said it was exciting that the Olympic partnership, which he said was in discussion for a "long time," was finally official.

"It's the biggest thing we do as a company. It draws the biggest audiences. It is one of the most relevant things we do that brings the country together," Wilson said. "And so I really believe it just sort of cements, as part of our mandate, a really major programming pillar for the company as a whole."

The agreement, which covers all media platforms, includes a commitment from CBC/Radio-Canada to broadcast at least 200 hours of the Summer Games and 100 hours of the Winter Games on free-to-air television.

Wilson would not disclose the rights fees, which are confidential with the IOC. However, he said it was not an "open-bid" process.

"It was us talking with the IOC and expressing interest to continue and them realizing that we're a committed partner that doesn't just bring light to the Olympic movement for 17 days every two years."

IOC president Thomas Bach said he was proud of the partnership.

"This agreement demonstrates a commitment to the Olympic values, the Olympic Games and the development of sport. This agreement will support athletes at all levels in Canada