The British-based network covered the World Superbike championship for the first time in 2000 with a 40-minute highlights package of the two races from each round.

The new agreement guarantees terrestrial television coverage until the end of 2004. The 2001 coverage will again be fronted be Suzi Perry with four times World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty added to the commentary team.

Castrol Honda team manager Neil Tuxworth commented: "It's great news. The BBC added a lot of credibility to the championship in 2000 with its highlights package but this year's live coverage will introduce a lot of new viewers to the championship."

The BBC also announced an agreement to cover the 13-round British Superbike championship.