Eurosport secures GP2 coverage rights

British Eurosport has agreed a new two and a half year deal to show GP2 races on its channel on Sky and Virgin Media.

Acting as a feeder to Formula 1, the GP2 tournament features 26 identical cars to test the skills of new drivers, with Lewis Hamilton being among those previously to have competed.

The broadcaster has not shown the competition for two years, but will now start coverage with six rounds of the 2009 championships remaining.

Starting at Germany's Nurburgring on July 11/12, the coverage will take in races at Spa in Belgium and Monza in Italy, ahead of the final round at Portugal's Portimao circuit on September 20.

Dave Kerr, British Eurosport director, said: "We are delighted to have this prestigious and exciting series back on British Eurosport and to be able to ensure that fans can see the rest of this season's races.

"It's great to add GP2 to our already superb lineup of motorsport, which includes the World Touring Car Championship, World Rally Championship, Formula 2, Dakar Rally, the Renault World Series and the IRC."

Meanwhile, Eurosport has also recently secured rights for the remainder of 2009 US PGA Tour season which were previously owned by collapsed broadcaster Setanta.