Global Cycling Network launches German channel

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Global Cycling Network launches German channel January 14, 2020 23.05 Europe/London By Jörn Krieger UK-based Play Sports Group (PSG), part of Discovery, has launched a German-language version of its Global Cycling Network (GCN). GCN auf Deutsch, available on YouTube, targets German-speaking viewers around the world. The move marks PSG’s eleventh channel, further expanding its global offering which includes English (launched in 2013), Spanish (2018), Italian (2018) and Japanese (2019) channels. The line-up comprises footage from races, interviews with riders and teams, tech insights and a weekly magazine show. The channel is fronted by recently retired professional cyclists Björn Thurau and Mario Vogt, who have a combined 21 years of pro cycling experience. “We’ve been planning a German-language GCN channel for a long time. It’s a hugely important market with great cyclists, cycling fans, some brilliant brands and events,” said Simon Wear, founder and CEO of Play Sports Group. “The German-speaking audience is already highly engaged with GCN, so we’re very much looking forward to providing bespoke new and unique videos in the German language and welcoming new viewers to our channel.” PSG’s German business unit is headed by Richard Todd who joined the group in late 2019. A fluent German-speaker, Todd began his career in cycling in Germany, first working at parts and accessories brand Ergon and, prior to joining PSG, served as managing director of cycling apparel brand ASSOS in the UK. PSG is in the process of opening an office in Germany. Discovery, owner of Eurosport, acquired a stake in Play Sports Group in February 2017.