BBC Scotland, the regional division of the UK's free-to-air state broadcaster, has acquired the rights to broadcast two international friendly matches featuring the Scottish national soccer team. These games are part of the preparations for the UEFA Euro 2024 matches.
The broadcasting rights were secured through a sub-licensing deal with Viaplay, Scandinavian OTT service and media rightsholder for all Scottish national team matches. The agreement includes qualifiers for both European Championships and World Cup from 2024 through 2028.
The two fixtures that will be aired are scheduled on March 26 against Northern Ireland and June 7 against Finland. Both games will be played on home ground at Glasgow’s Hampden Park stadium.
Matches will be shown on multiple linear channels
These friendlies will be broadcast live across multiple channels in an effort to reach a wider audience. In Scotland, viewers can tune into the main BBC Scotland channel while nationwide coverage is provided by BBC Three, one of BBC's tertiary stations.
While this deal allows BBC Scotland to showcase these two important friendlies, it should be noted that Viaplay retains exclusive UK rights for other key fixtures involving Scotland's national team. This includes their 22nd of March's Netherlands fixture and June 3 game against Gibraltar which are both away fixtures set to take place in their respective opponent's countries.
The buildup for the upcoming Euro 2024 is on mark
This new arrangement offers sports fans across UK an opportunity to follow their favourite teams closely as they prepare for major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2024. For sports betting enthusiasts too, having access to live broadcasts can provide valuable insights into team performances ahead of placing bets on future matches or tournaments.
This partnership between BBC Scotland and Viaplay not only ensures greater visibility for the Scottish national team's friendlies but also enhances the viewing experience for sports fans and betting enthusiasts across the UK.
