49ers and KNBR announce extension through 2030 season

The 49ers and KNBR have announced a five-year extension in broadcast partnership. An agreement that will keep the Niners on The Sports Leader through the 2030 season, marking 25 seasons as partners. 

49ers Director of Broadcast Partnerships Bob Sargent joined Murph & Markus on Wednesday morning to announce the news. 

Cumulus Media San Francisco Market Manager Larry Blumhagen weighed in on the value of the 49ers partnership with the company. 

“We at KNBR are tremendously excited to continue this valued partnership with the Niners,” Blumhagen gushed. “We have a wonderful relationship with the organization and its people, and they are truly a partner to us in connecting their fans with all the gameday action they love and demand. We look forward to continuing to provide 49ers fans with outstanding gameday coverage on all KNBR platforms from AM/FM to streaming.”

Sargent discussed the history of the KNBR and 49ers partnership, and how many hands went into finalizing the deal. It’s one of the more iconic NFL local broadcasts, one that fans specifically celebrate and identify with every fall.

The partnership ensures that Greg Papa and Tim Ryan will remain as the radio voices of the 49ers throughout the remainder of the decade at least. As Papa battles Leukemia and works his way back to the booth on Sundays, Sargent and the morning show reached out to the legendary voice, who was certainly listening. 

“This announcement makes me think of our mutual dear dear friend Greg Papa,” Brian Murphy said. “So we, Sarg, would say this extension is built for Greg Papa.” 

Sargent replied. 

“The NFL needs him, and the 49ers need him,” Sargent added. “There’s no doubt in our minds that Greg is gonna be back in the saddle doing his thing. I can’t wait for the first broadcast when we can get back in the saddle and pick up where we left off.”

Check out the full interview and announcement with Bob Sargent below!