Premier Sports, a UK pay-TV network, has broadened its five-year broadcast partnership with the SPFL (Scottish Professional Football League) governing body. The expansion includes two additional post-split relegation group fixtures to its annual broadcast commitment.
The new agreement adds more games to Premier Sports' package. In addition to the 20-game slate agreed in 2024, the broadcaster will now show two extra games each campaign, bringing its total commitment up to 22 SPFL fixtures.
These additional matches will be selected from the bottom half of the post-fixture split games. This period encompasses the final five gameweeks of the Premiership when teams from both halves of the league are divided and play against each other one last time. This marks a significant milestone as it's Premier Sports' first venture into broadcasting post-split games.
Securing top-flight games for future seasons
Prior to this expansion, ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, Premier Sports had secured a five-year deal for broadcasting 20 top-flight Scottish Premiership matches from SPFL. This opportunity arose after Sky Sports declined to air all matches that it receives through their deal with SPFL, allowing for a smaller broadcast package tendering process.
Sky currently holds rights for airing 60 out of total 228 Premiership matches each season under an agreement renewed back in 2022. At year-end in 2023, Premier Sports reacquired its UK business from Viaplay Group following their complete divestment from UK operations. Through this transaction, Premier Sports regained control over its UK sports channels and associated rights.
Premier Sports is available both as premium TV channel and online service provider offering coverage on various sporting events including Spanish soccer’s top-tier LaLiga competition; rugby union’s United Rugby Championship; and ice hockey's NHL, in the UK.
Enhancing Scottish coverage
The new agreement with SPFL further enhances Premier Sports' coverage of Scottish soccer. The broadcaster already shows the domestic Premier Sports Cup (which it title sponsors), and the Scottish Cup. This expansion is a testament to their commitment to providing comprehensive coverage for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike.
This expanded deal between Premier Sports and SPFL not only provides more content for viewers but also marks an important step in broadening the reach of Scottish Premiership games.
