In a major shake-up that could define the way football is watched by fans, global streaming giants Netflix, Amazon, or Disney might be streaming the UEFA Champions League very soon.
Broadcasting rights are one of the major revenue streams for UEFA, and the European governing body could be set for a big paycheck.
According to a report from the Times, UEFA’s next broadcasting cycle rights will be up for grabs next week, for the rights to telecast Champions League from the period 2027-33.
The joint venture between UEFA and European football clubs, aka UC3, has announced that the tender process will begin in the biggest markets, including France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.
The report claimed that UEFA want to surpass the €5billion (£4.3bn) mark from annual income with the new deal. American agency Relevant will be overseeing the process, and they are looking to lure global streaming giants like Apple, Netflix or Disney.
UEFA’s current media partners can also bid for the rights in multiple markets, and the deals could run for longer durations, which is a standard process across Europe.
Will Netflix be the new home of Champions League?
The global streaming giant Netflix has already shown the Christmas Day NFL matches, and they have been a success. They also streamed the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight and have also secured rights for the next two editions of the Women’s World Cup for the US market.
YouTube has also dipped its toes in broadcasting rights by showing the opening week of NFL games, while DAZN is also increasing its share in the broadcasting market by streaming the inaugural edition of the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Champions League has the biggest club competition in Europe, attracting viewership from all over the globe; therefore, securing the premier tournament’s rights would be a big draw for Netflix or Amazon.
What did UEFA say on the matter?
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, in his speech during the recently held general assembly meeting, spoke about the ambitious approach.
“Together we are building something unique, with real ambition. To deliver the most engaging football. The most innovative. The most accessible. To expand our core revenue streams,” said Ceferin.
He continued, “And to make the most of digital platforms that bring the game closer than ever. This is how we will strengthen our clubs and keep European football at the very top.”
What next?
The bidding process for the tender will begin on 13 October, and the eventual winner should be declared in the upcoming weeks.
Meanwhile, the ongoing Champions League group stage action resumes on October 21 with matchday three fixtures set to be played after the international break.
