Argentina's state broadcaster, TV Publica, has reportedly lost the rights to broadcast games from the country's top-tier soccer league, Primera Division. This development could potentially end free-to-air (FTA) coverage of the competition.
According to media sources in Argentina, ESPN, one of the two main domestic rights-holders for the Primera Division matches, has been informed by The Argentine Football Association (AFA) that it will not be allowed to sub-license rights to TV Publica for next season.
ESPN has been sub-licensing games – initially one and then two – to TV Publica over recent years. However, reports suggest this practice will cease ahead of the 2024-25 Primera Division season.
Exclusive deals with ESPN and TNT Sports Networks
The current agreements between AFA and broadcasters ESPN and TNT Sports are exclusive. Any additional deals require approval from AFA - a process that until now hasn't caused any issues but appears set for change.
This shift is reportedly linked with political changes in Argentina. Javier Milei became president last December and has since expressed his desire on several occasions either to shut down or privatize TV Publica.
The last top-tier soccer content covered by this network was earlier this year when it broadcasted Copa America matches held in the US.
Impact on future coverage
With these changes coming into effect before 2024-25 Primera Division season which started between May 10th and December 15th, fans may need alternative ways to watch their favorite teams play if they have previously relied on FTA broadcasts via TV Publica.
For sports fans as well as sports betting enthusiasts who rely heavily on live broadcasts for their activities, these developments could significantly impact how they engage with Argentine football moving forward.
The loss of Primera Division rights by TV Publica marks a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for Argentine football. As the situation continues to evolve, fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching how these changes impact the accessibility and enjoyment of Argentina's top-tier soccer league.
