UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, has initiated its tender process for the 2027-28 to 2030-31 cycle. This covers a range of club competitions in the Netherlands, including the top-tier Champions League matches.
UEFA issued an 'invitation to submit offer' (ISO) document in the Netherlands yesterday. The ISO covers three seasons of various competitions such as Champions League, Super Cup and UEFA Youth League.
Simultaneously, a separate ISO was launched covering three seasons and territory for second-tier Europa League and third-tier Conference League. The sales process is being managed by UC3, which oversees commercial affairs for UEFA’s club competitions. London-based Relevent Football Partners is assisting UC3 in this endeavor. They have been selecting broadcast partners over recent months. Interested parties are expected to express their interest by February 25 at 11 am CET via email at offers@RELFP.com.
Current rights holder
Ziggo Sport currently holds exclusive rights to all three competitions for the ongoing cycle from 2024-25 through to 2026-27 in the Netherlands. Ziggo Sport is a Dutch pay-television network owned by telecoms operator VodafoneZiggo.
However, there's been a shift in strategy from UEFA following reports that it wants separate broadcasters airing different competitions due to declining audience numbers under Ziggo Sport's coverage of Europa League and Conference League matches.
Chris Woerts, Dutch sports marketing executive stated that sponsors were unhappy with lower viewing figures on Ziggo Sports leading them wanting more visibility.
Before Ziggo Sport took over broadcasting rights, RTL had won rights to UCL while Talpa secured Europa and Conference Leagues during the 2021-22 to 2023-24 cycle. Both companies merged in June 2021, creating a cross-media group that includes television, streaming, and digital platforms. Despite RTL's interest in retaining rights for the 2024-27 cycle, Ziggo Sport won during the bidding process.
Ziggo sport’s extensive portfolio
Ziggo Sport boasts an extensive portfolio of soccer rights. It includes Spain’s LaLiga, France’s Ligue 1, Italy’s Serie A and Coppa Italia, Germany’s DFB-Pokal cup competition, England’s FA Cup and leagues from Belgium, Portugal and Scotland.
The pay-TV operator also holds rights to UEFA Nations League national teams competition as well as qualifiers for FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships. However it lost its rights to broadcast English Premier League from the ongoing season after Viaplay streaming service acquired them following its launch in Netherlands.
This new tender process by UEFA is expected to bring about a significant shift in how football fans access their favorite games across different competitions. The outcome will be eagerly awaited by sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike.
