The EBU joined forces with the International Ski Federation (FIS) to organise an innovative two day workshop to look at ways of increasing the broadcast value of the FIS Alpine World Cups and World Championships.

The workshop, held in the EBU's HQ in Geneva last week, brought together experts from FIS and the EBU with all the major EBU Winter Sports Members alongside Swiss Timing and Infront. 

Several concrete proposals came out of the meeting including ideas around production harmonization; starting groups; graphics with a special focus on dynamic, 3D and remote solutions; and on-site and on-screen advertising. This is the most in-depth and detailed approach to tackle such issues and the new proposals will be submitted to the respective FIS bodies. 

Jürg Capol, FIS Marketing Director stated: "We have seen that the many TV Key Stakeholders are actively involved, we are pleased to see this strong commitment and high engagement. The skisport has a strong position in many countries and thanks to these discussions, inputs and exchange of experience, we are able to improve and deliver better.  We will focus and push several aspects to improve the harmonization and identity, new paths help ski sport to increase its resonance."

Ingolfur Hannesson, Head of Winter Sports at the EBU, added: "We are really pleased to have been able to initiate this workshop, bringing all the key stakeholders together and tackling some interesting and progressive topics. I'm confident that our discussions and proposals will lead to improvement in the FIS events and how they are conveyed to the public through the professional approach of our Members. Whatsmore, I believe this is only the beginning of what we can achieve when entering into the world of sports and digital media."