Spain is considering forcing tech giant Google to pay compensation to La Liga, Telefónica, and Mediapro due to the illegal broadcast of La Liga matches via an app called New Play. This move could set a precedent for how tech companies are held accountable for facilitating piracy.
Google Ireland and Google Commerce Limited representatives have been summoned by a Spanish court to testify regarding their alleged share in the ad revenue generated by New Play. The app, which sells advertising, is currently being sued by La Liga. The court demands information from Google about the ad revenues it gained via the app available on its store. Moreover, it accuses Google of not removing the app from phones as requested by La Liga. In addition to this, representatives from Huawei have also been summoned before the court.
This case could potentially impact how tech companies manage apps on their platforms that facilitate piracy. If found guilty, they may be held responsible not only for hosting such apps but also profiting from them indirectly through ad revenues.
La Liga's anti-piracy campaign
This legal action forms part of a broader campaign led by La Liga against pirate football TV. Numerous illegal apps have already shut down under its onslaught including DuckVision, Luar, Kodivertido, Cristal Azul and TV Chopo. La Liga's aggressive stance against piracy aims at protecting its broadcasting rights and ensuring fair compensation for all stakeholders involved in Spanish football - clubs, players and broadcasters alike.
As this case unfolds in Spain's courts it will be closely watched around the world as it could set a significant precedent regarding tech companies' responsibility towards content shared on their platforms. It serves as a reminder that while technology has made content more accessible than ever before; copyright laws still apply and must be respected.
For sports fans and sports betting fans, this case highlights the importance of consuming content legally. Not only does it ensure a fair return for those who produce and broadcast the games we love, but it also contributes to maintaining the integrity of the sport itself.
