Premier League Awards UK Live Audio Rights to BBC and talkSPORT
The Premier League has just finalized a deal that grants exclusive UK live audio commentary rights to the BBC and talkSPORT for the next four seasons, spanning from the 2025/26 to 2028/29 campaigns. This agreement ensures that fans across the UK can tune in to live audio commentary on all Premier League matchdays, keeping them close to the action wherever they are. The rights are divided into six distinct packages, allowing both BBC Radio and talkSPORT to cover specific match slots, including exclusive times on Saturdays, Sundays, and midweek games.
For instance, BBC Radio will bring live commentary to fans on Saturday afternoons, early evening games, and Sunday matchups, with additional coverage for some of the most anticipated games each week. Notably, BBC Radio 5 Live has secured around 65 live matches, including key Saturday 3 p.m. kickoffs and Sunday matches in the 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. slots, alongside their flagship “5 Sports Extra” programming. As Heidi Dawson, Controller of BBC Radio 5 Live, stated, this arrangement solidifies BBC Radio’s role as the “home of Premier League football,” giving fans access to high-stakes games with enhanced coverage.
Also Read:Meanwhile, talkSPORT has positioned itself as the primary commercial partner for Premier League audio rights. They will cover Saturday lunchtime and evening kickoffs, along with select Friday and Monday night games. This allows talkSPORT to provide a balanced array of weekend and midweek coverage, complementing BBC’s schedule. Scott Taunton, President of Broadcasting at talkSPORT, highlighted the network’s ability to deliver extensive live commentary across both talkSPORT and talkSPORT2, reinforcing their reach to millions of UK listeners. Notably, talkSPORT is also expanding its commentary teams and programming to bring fans an immersive experience throughout the season.
The Premier League Chief Media Officer, Paul Molnar, expressed excitement for the renewed partnerships, emphasizing how BBC and talkSPORT have both proven to be engaging and valuable platforms for Premier League commentary. This collaboration, Molnar explained, offers “an important service for Premier League fans across the UK,” ensuring continuous access to live football action.
The Premier League’s choice to continue with these trusted broadcasters also underscores its commitment to reaching fans via multiple media platforms. This deal aligns with other broadcast arrangements in the UK, where televised rights for the Premier League have already been secured by Sky Sports and TNT Sports for the 2025/26 season. Combined, these broadcast rights are expected to generate substantial revenue for the Premier League, supporting its clubs and further developing the league’s brand globally.
Read More:
0 Comments