TV rights fetch Commonwealth Games organisers $60 million

The 2010 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee on Friday said they have earned $60 million -- $20 million more than expected -- as revenue from television rights.

Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi said on Friday they had targeted $40 million from selling television rights, but they have already managed $60 million.

"We have crossed our target and we are going to touch $60 million by selling television rights. We have struck a good deal with broadcasters in Australia and Britain by sorting out the timing of the disciplines which are popular in these countries," Kalmadi said.

"CWG is going to be a revenue-neutral event. We have taken $2.6 billion from the government and we will be in a position to repay the amount. We will raise the money through sponsorship, TV rights, merchandising and ticket sales."

Hero Honda will be the presenting partner during the Indian leg of the Queen's Baton Relay.

"We are delighted to have Hero Honda as a partner for CWG. It is an excellent platform to reach out to national and international audiences. I hope more Indian companies will come forward to participate in the spectacle," said Kalmadi.

Pawan Munjal, CEO of Hero Honda, said: "The company is committed to promoting sports in the country. I am hopeful that the Games will inspire an entire generation and leave a lasting legacy for the country."