Martin Devlin to Host TVNZ's FIFA World Cup Coverage

Martin Devlin to Host TVNZ's FIFA World Cup Coverage

Starts Friday 13 June at 7.45am on TV One and TVNZ Ondemand

The 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Friday 13 June, and on board to host TVNZ’s free-to-air LIVE coverage is one of New Zealand’s leading sports broadcasters, Martin Devlin.

More than 3 million people tuned in to TV ONE for the World Cup in 2010 and Jeff Latch, TVNZ’s Head of Television credits Devlin for playing a part in that success. “Martin’s passion for the game was infectious and viewers loved the enthusiasm and humour he brought to our coverage.”

Joining Devlin in the studio throughout the tournament will be guest experts and former All Whites Steve Sumner, Noah Hickey, and Danny Hay. Over in Brazil, ONE News correspondent Jack Tame will be reporting live and giving viewers a glimpse of the incredible atmosphere.

Devlin is a six-time ‘Sports Broadcaster of the Year’ winner, and won acclaim for hosting TVNZ’s 2010 FIFA World Cup coverage. He currently hosts The Devlin Radio Show on Radio Sport every weekday, and can’t wait for the games to get started.

He says, “Was it really 4 years ago? It doesn't seem so long since Winston Reid's last gasp equaliser against Slovakia sent a nation of ever-hopeful football fans into serious World Cup celebration. Hosting TV ONE's coverage was a huge privilege for me, and I'm delighted to be back again for Brazil 2014.”

As well as having the rights to 22 games (including all quarters, semis and the final) TVNZ will present a daily round-up of all games in the tournament in a highlights programme, screening weekdays at 4.25pm, and weekends at 4.55pm.

The opportunity for viewers to watch the live action free-to-air either on TV ONE or online was extremely well-received during the 2013 America’s Cup. TVNZ’s GM of Ondemand, Jason Foden, is excited to offer this option again for FIFA 2014.

Foden says, “Football fans will now be able to watch the most important games of the Cup wherever and whenever they like. Each match, as well as each highlights show, will be available to view online via the website or mobile app at the same time as it’s screening on TV ONE. Highlights and full match replays will also be available to view on Ondemand. We’re really happy to be able to offer viewers a more personalised experience.”

Devlin adds, “The FIFA World Cup a fantastic event in all aspects, a kaleidoscope of colours and countries featuring the greatest players from the most popular game on earth. It promises to be a momentous month of drama, upset and intrigue from the spiritual home of this tournament, Brazil. Join me for kick-off!”

Supporting TVNZ’s coverage for 2014 are sponsors Nike and TAB.

Coverage begins at 7.45am on Friday 13 June, with the opening match between hosts Brazil and Croatia kicking off at 8.00am. Whether on TV ONE or TVNZ Ondemand, don’t miss the live action.

ENDS

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