BCE has provided details of its operation as host broadcaster of the Škoda Tour de Luxembourg 2024.
Ensuring every moment of the five stage event was broadcast across multiple platforms, Broadcasting Center Europe (BCE) deployed a range of solutions to overcome several technical challenges.
Cameras were connected to an OB van via fibre optics for Stage 1 of the race, solving the problems posed by narrow streets in Luxembourg City’s Fëschmaart area and enabling seamless live coverage of the finish. Throughout the event, BCE utilised a robust and multi-faceted production setup, which included 4 HF motorbikes and a helicopter providing feeds to a circling aeroplane. The plane relayed the signals down to ground antennas ahead of transfer to the OB vans.
Between 5 and 7 cameras were used at the stage finish lines, capturing the drama of the race and adhering to guidelines laid down by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). An on-site graphics team produced real-time overlays giving statistics and live race information.
BCE’s OB vans handled final production, broadcasting daily on RTL Tele Lëtzebuerg then transmitted via Satellite News Gathering (SNG) technology to Eurosport for onward global feed. Local viewers were also able to watch a live stream through the RTL Lëtzebuerg website.
Reflecting on the production, Xavier Thillen, BCE’s head of production and digital media operations, said, “We are proud to have played such a critical role in the success of the Škoda Tour de Luxembourg 2024. The technical challenges of covering such a dynamic and fast-paced event were immense, but the dedication and expertise of our team ensured that we delivered top-quality coverage to a global audience.”