Channel 4 has secured the rights to broadcast the highly anticipated UEFA 2023 European Championship Final between England U-21 and Spain U-21. The Young Lions, aiming to etch their names in history, will make their first appearance in a final in 14 years, confronting the formidable Spanish U-21s, famously known as La Rojita, who have emerged victorious in three out of their last seven competitions.
Ian Katz, the Chief Content Officer of Channel 4, expressed his delight at bringing yet another monumental sporting event to the free-to-air audience. He stated, “Channel 4 has brought a number of historic sporting moments to a free to air audience in recent years and we’re delighted that the nation will be able to watch England’s Under-21s as they attempt to make their own bit of history against Spain on Saturday.
“The Young Lions final will be part of a bumper weekend of sport on Channel 4 with live coverage of qualifying for the British GP earlier on Saturday and the Grand Prix itself on Sunday.”
England’s U-21 team has maintained an impeccable defensive record throughout the tournament, having yet to concede a single goal. The last time they reached the U-21 European Championship Final was in 2009. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to commence at 5pm on Saturday and will be aired live on Channel 4.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Lee Carsley, the U-21 squad has exhibited remarkable composure, with midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White earning accolades for his exceptional performance in the Young Lions’ comfortable 3-0 victory over Israel in the semi-finals. La Rojita, on the other hand, secured their place in the final with an emphatic 5-1 victory over Ukraine.
Channel 4’s coverage will be led by Jules Breach and is set to commence at 4.45pm, with commentary provided by Steve Bower. Additionally, viewers will have the option to stream the program live on Channel 4’s platform.
Channel 4’s acquisition of the rights to broadcast the England U-21 final marks the network’s second major achievement within two days. The announcement follows their recent agreement with Sky, ensuring the continuation of Formula 1 coverage on free-to-air television until 2026.
Comprehensive coverage of the British Grand Prix will be available throughout the weekend, commencing with the practice rounds on Friday, followed by the qualifying rounds on Saturday, and concluding with the highly anticipated Grand Prix on Sunday, set to commence at 3pm.
