Renault is understood to be sponsoring Channel 4's drama series next year in a deal worth more than £3m. The sponsorship will comprise a wrap-around presentation to such series as The West Wing, The Sopranos and a new series of Teachers.

Channel 4 is also looking for a sponsor for its sports coverage, which includes racing, cricket and rallying. But insiders say that the sports portfolio is so diverse that they may have to split the package in order to appeal to any single sponsor.