premier League Considers In-house Broadcast

The Premier League is considering dropping its numerous broadcast partners and showing games on its own platform, according to The Mirror.

The report states that it is likely there will only be one more multi-partner deal before the Premier League ends its broadcasts arrangements, this includes agreements with Sky Sports, BT Sport and Amazon Prime.

It is thought that the Premier League would then create its own platform and ‘cut out the middle man.’

The decision would be a huge blow to Sky, which has held the rights to the Premier League since its inception in 1992 and regards its coverage of English football’s top flight as one if its greatest assets.

The British pay-television broadcaster has played a significant role in building up the wealth of the Premier League over the last three decades, but now see its position in the game at risk.

The Premier League has come under significant criticism in recent years for its broadcasting agreements, with supporters having to pay significant subscription fees for the variety of platforms that hold rights. In addition, unlike other European countries, the UK does not broadcast every game.

Kevin Miles, Chief Executive of the Football Supporters Association, commented, “There’s no question that supporters are increasingly feeling the financial strain. We’re not untouched by the general cost of living crisis but the more platforms there are, the more subscriptions we have to find.

“For those fans who want to watch everyone of the club’s televised games the costs are really starting to mount.”

There has also been reports that DAZN and Disney+ could enter the bidding for the next contract while Viaplay broadcast the recent internationals featuring Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.