In a landmark ruling, Spanish soccer's premier league, LaLiga, and its domestic broadcast partner Telefonica have won a court order against virtual private network (VPN) operators NordVPN and ProtonVPN. The verdict mandates these VPN services to block IP addresses within Spain that are pirating LaLiga matches.
The order was issued by the Commercial Court No. 1 of Cordoba and identifies VPN operators as 'technological intermediaries' in piracy under the EU Digital Services Act. Consequently, it becomes their responsibility to prevent piracy infringements on their platforms. This ruling is unprecedented for Spain and joins a similar French decision as one of only a few globally that incorporates dynamic elements into its enforcement strategy.
As per the court order, NordVPN and ProtonVPN must now work closely with LaLiga and Telefonica to identify users pirating content. Once identified, these IP addresses must be blocked from service within Spain. Notably, this request is dynamic - meaning updated IP address lists must be provided as new infractions are recorded - and does not allow appeals from those found guilty of violations.
Maintaining evidence for future reference
LaLiga and Telefonica also have an obligation to preserve evidence of illegal broadcasts used to notify those accused of infractions. This requirement aligns with a 2024 ruling stipulating such evidence preservation measures.
The fight against piracy forms an integral part of LaLiga’s media rights strategy. This recent victory over VPN operators marks significant progress in this ongoing battle against digital piracy in sports broadcasting.
By enforcing stringent anti-piracy measures like blocking offending IP addresses dynamically, LaLiga aims at protecting its content while ensuring fair play among sports fans across the globe. This ruling sets a precedent for other sports leagues and broadcasting partners to follow, potentially reshaping the landscape of sports broadcasting rights enforcement in the digital age.
