NBCU Taps iHM as Audio Partner for Olympics Coverage

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, May 8, 2024

iHeartMedia

NBCUniversal has chosen iHeartMedia as its audio partner for the Olympic Games Paris 2024. As part of the agreement, iHeartRadio will provide 24/7 play-by-play audio channels of select NBCU linear coverage of the Games, create an original Olympic iHeartPodcast hosted by Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, produce Olympic-specific episodes from some of iHeart's top podcasts and promote tune-in for NBCU's comprehensive coverage.

"We're excited to partner with iHeartMedia to provide Olympic fans with even more ways to enjoy the Paris Olympic Games," said NBC Olympics President Gary Zenkel. "This partnership allows iHeart's large audio audience to hear NBCU's Olympic coverage away from their televisions and digital devices, as well as engage with the Games through iHeart's celebrated and entertaining podcasts."

The play-by-play channels will carry NBCU's coverage of the most exciting moments of the Games, with a special focus on Team USA. The U.S. has led the medal count at seven consecutive Summer Games and looks to be a powerhouse again. NBCU's coverage on iHeart's channels is expected to include Team USA men's and women's basketball, soccer and volleyball, as well as swimming, gymnastics, track & field, and more.

"We are thrilled to partner with NBCU on coverage of the Paris Olympics this summer and heighten the excitement around this year's games," said President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships Michael Biondo. "As the leading sports audio destination, it's an honor to be able to provide our platform and our massive reach to bring further awareness and up-to-the minute coverage of NBCU's broadcast of this year's Olympics."

NBCU and iHeartMedia are creating an all-new original podcast hosted by Saturday Night Live's Bowen Yang and actor-comedian Matt Rogers (Fire Island.) The interview-based podcast will follow the hosts as they learn more about the Olympics from current and former athletes, and celebrity fans. Listeners can follow along to learn and celebrate the athletes, city and culture of the Paris Olympic Games. The podcast is set to launch weekly episodes in late June stretching from before the Olympic Opening Ceremony and continuing through the Closing Ceremony in August.

Additionally, as part of this collaboration with NBCU, iHeartMedia will produce Olympic-themed episodes for some of its most popular educational podcasts, including Stuff You Missed in History Class and Ridiculous History.