Netflix is reportedly preparing a bid for live broadcasting rights to the Champions League, in what would be the streaming giant’s most ambitious foray into top-level football to date. [The Times]
With UEFA’s next rights cycle for the Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League set to begin in 2027, officials are expecting bids to drive annual revenues north of €5 billion (£4.3 billion), a significant jump from the current £2.9 billion-per-year agreements.
The rights tender, due out this month, will span six years, doubling the length of existing deals, and represents one of UEFA’s most valuable commercial opportunities yet, fuelled by a revamped 36-team Champions League format.
Currently, TNT Sports and Amazon Prime hold the live broadcast rights in the UK, with the BBC showing highlights. Netflix’s entrance would shake up an already competitive market, with the streamer looking to plant its flag in one of sport’s most coveted properties.
It has been long rumoured that Netflix were looking to get into the market.
Under the current financial model, 75% of UEFA’s revenue from broadcasting and commercial sales goes to Champions League clubs, 17% to Europa League teams, and 8% to Conference League sides.
For clubs like Celtic, this could have significant implications. Even under the current format, group-stage qualification brings a windfall. If the next cycle triggers a revenue surge, it may increase both the prize pot and the financial pressure to reach the competition proper.
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One Response
Grand news. 🤑🤑🤑 Netdic& platform has so many back doors, they should call it Anything free fliks.
Free fitbaw fur tha masses, even during Sunday services?
Jist need a streemin stick though and tha software tae access it.
And tha software is free.