Deadline Hits For FA Media Rights Bids

25 Apr 2008 | tshego

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The deadline for bids for the Football Assocation’s domestic TV rights packages
for 2008 to 2012 passes today with all of the major broadcasters believed to be
in the frame.

It is thought that existing rights holders the BBC and BSkyB will table
similar bids to their existing contracts in order to secure renewal deals.

However the duo are set to face competition from the likes of terrestrial
broadcasters ITV and Five and pay-TV broadcaster Setanta. Newly launched cable
platform Virgin Media could also be in the frame.

The FA is expected to bring in around £400 million from the rights portfolio
which 15 different packages available including an array of digital rights. The
existing contracts, which expire at the end of the year, are split into six
packages.

The packages cover around 230 games including England internationals and FA
Cup games – up considerably from the 180 matches covered in the existing
contracts.