London UK, 26 January 2012:Extreme Sports Channel - the home of thrilling lifestyle, adventure and action sports programming - is to be introduced to Italy on 1st February, marking its international debut in high definition (HD).

The channel’s HD feed will be a simulcast of the standard definition feed launched in 1999, which now broadcasts to subscribers in 66 territories and in 12 languages across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). The inaugural launch on Italy’s Sky platform sees the channel’s entrance into the HD market and from there it will begin rolling out to operators across the EMEA region.

“Extreme Sports Channel’s globe-trotting challenges, exhilarating documentaries and action sports championships are perfect content for HD viewing,” said Louise Cottrell, Chello Zone’s VP Affiliate Sales. “We’re looking forward to working with Sky to launch the Extreme Sports Channel brand in Italy as part of their Entertainment package, and expect the new high definition feed to roll out across the rest of EMEA in the coming months.”

HD programming on the new channel feed will include the premiere of Dr Danger series 2 - following Dr Bob Arnot’s exploration of some of the world’s most dangerous territories - plus the fifth series of drag racing show Pinks and wrestling with TNA Greatest Matches. These new acquisitions will join channel favourites Mantracker, Fantasy Factory and Dew Tour; later in the year, viewers will experience X Games 2012, witnessing the world’s top action sports stars in full HD.

Tim MacMullen, General Manager of Extreme Sports Channel, said:“Set in some of the most breath-taking locations across the globe, Extreme Sports Channel is bursting with fast-paced action sports and adventure programming. In HD, viewers will feel even closer to the action and see every FMX stunt, MMA headlock, skate jump, Amazonian expedition and Alpine trek in the best possible quality. The channel’s content packs a punch, and the launch in HD marks its commitment to delivering the highest quality entertainment viewers have come to expect from the world leader in action sports TV”.

About Extreme Sports Channel
The world renowned Extreme Sports Channel is the only TV destination for the world’s most thrilling and inspirational lifestyle, adventure and action sports programming. From gripping documentaries to globe-trotting challenges and sports championships, Extreme has it all.
The channel captures the pure passion of people who live out their dreams and embark on amazing expeditions; celebrates those who use skill, wit and determination to achieve their goals; and showcases the world’s most talented action sports athletes.

Extreme Sports Channel launched in 1999 and is now available to subscribers in 66 territories and 12 languages across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Online, the channel offers live streaming of events via www.extreme.com the ultimate online destination for action sports fans.