Ascot's future on ITV uncertain after broadcaster sets Saturday deal deadline

Ascot has been asked to decide by the end of this week if it wants to remain part of ITV's British racing coverage, with the decision having the potential to determine if the sport's most famous racecourse moves largely off mainstream television.

In a dramatic development, the Racing Post has learned the three parties with which ITV has been negotiating – namely Racecourse Media Group, Ascot and Arena Racing Company – have been set an end of August deadline to agree the terms for a new contract.

The next deal would cover three years and ensure the sport has an extensive free-to-air platform until at least the end of 2023.