In a move that could revolutionize the way football fans access their favorite sport, MPs are set to vote on an amendment to the Football Governance Bill. If passed, this legislation would make at least 10 Premier League games per season free-to-air.
The Liberal Democrats have proposed this amendment following their campaign during last year's general election. Their aim was to make more major sporting events accessible to the public without any cost. According to BBC reports, the party is confident that a vote on this amendment will be granted.
This legislative change could mirror LaLiga's situation in Spain. Since 2022, Spanish law has mandated that one match per week be shown free-to-air.
Impact on broadcasting rights
The upcoming season is expected to introduce a new four-year Premier League rights deal. Under this agreement, Sky Sports will air at least 215 games and TNT Sports will broadcast 52 fixtures. Meanwhile, BBC continues holding the rights for Premier League highlights.
However, it remains unclear how these broadcasting arrangements might change if the proposed amendment passes into law.
Government stance and previous attempts
Despite these developments, a spokesperson for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport stated that there are no plans from government side to review the listed events regime currently in place.
Max Wilkinson MP, Lib Dem spokesperson for Culture, Media and Sport, said:
“I’m urging MPs of all stripes to back our amendment to tear down the paywall and make Premier League games available on free to air channels. For too long, the jewel in the crown of British football has been locked behind an expensive barrier that keeps fans out while lining the pockets of broadcasters. That must end today - with a free-to-air revolution that gives the Premier League back to the country.”
A similar proposal was tabled during last month's committee stage but did not pass through successfully. At that time Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock argued against it stating: “The listed events regime have protected key moments such as FA Cup Final while ensuring that Premier League EFL & FA can raise billions of pounds annually which is invested back into pyramid."
The Football Governance Bill, which is currently under consideration, aims to establish an independent regulator for English football. This body would introduce more stringent tests for club owners and bring about other significant changes in the sport's governance.
