Francisco "Paco" Casal, head of Tenfield, and Ignacio Alonso, president of the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), recently convened at the prestigious Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco. The meeting aimed to strategize on the future of television rights in Uruguayan football.
The existing broadcasting contract is held by Tenfield until December 2025. As this deadline approaches, anticipation builds for what lies beyond. This pivotal meeting marks another chapter in the evolving narrative of how local football will reach fans' screens starting in 2026.
Earlier this month, under Estadio Centenario's historic arches, Casal and Alonso held a promising discussion. Casal positively noted that their conversation was "very good," emphasizing their mutual drive to find an optimal path forward for broadcasting Uruguay's beloved sport.
Legal rulings influence negotiations
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently tipped negotiations in favor of AUF following a complaint from an ensemble of 12 clubs including Peñarol and Defensor among others. These clubs had ambitiously sought a seat at the negotiation table with Tenfield under the banner of Lufpro - an unofficially recognized Uruguayan Professional Football League.
However, CAS dismissed Lufpro's appeal for an injunction which reinforced AUF’s lead role in June negotiations with Tenfield. If these discussions remain unresolved, a competitive bidding process will be initiated to decide who will broadcast football matches from 2026 to 2029.
AUF expresses confidence post legal ruling
In a press conference following CAS ruling, Alonso exuded confidence: "We welcome the ruling with calm and confidence. We were fully assured that our legal position was strong." He further asserted that they are leading this process.
With AUF firmly in control of these crucial negotiations, the sporting community watches with bated breath. The outcome will determine how the future of Uruguayan football broadcasting will unfold, impacting not only sports fans but also those involved in sports betting.
The meeting between Casal and Alonso is a significant step towards shaping the future of Uruguayan football TV rights. As anticipation builds, all eyes are on these key players as they navigate through legal rulings and negotiations to find an optimal path forward for Uruguay's beloved sport.
