Premier League secures approval in principle for three-year renewal of TV rights deal; PL says: "The renewals will provide financial certainty to clubs throughout professional football"; Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng is "minded to" approve the new deal
Thursday 13 May 2021 21:42, UK
The Premier League has secured approval in principle for a three-year renewal of its TV rights deal with UK broadcast partners, including Sky Sports.
The deal with Sky Sports, BT Sport, Amazon Prime and the BBC, which would extend the current rights arrangements for another three years, is subject to parliamentary approval and any opposition to the proposed plans needs to be made by May 28.
Premier League clubs have also agreed £100m of additional funding for National League, women's football, League One and League Two clubs and grassroots game.
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng is "minded to" approve the new deal, which could be agreed by early autumn at the latest and approved by secondary legislation with no vote in Parliament required.
In a statement, the Premier League said: "The UK renewals for the next broadcast cycle - from seasons 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 - will be concluded at the same overall value as the current arrangements between the Premier League and its broadcast partners.
"As part of the Premier League's developing strategic plan, the renewals will provide financial certainty to clubs throughout professional football as a result of maintaining current levels of support and enables the League to commit to increased funding. This will give security and continuity throughout the pyramid until at least 2025."
Richard Masters, Premier League chief executive, said: "The Premier League would like to express our gratitude to our broadcast partners for their continued commitment to the Premier League and support for the football pyramid.
"We are hugely appreciative of the Government agreeing in principle to allow this arrangement and for their continued support for the Premier League and the English game. COVID-19 has had a significant impact on football, and renewals with our UK broadcast partners will reduce uncertainty, generate stability and promote confidence within the football pyramid."
In a statement, Sky Sports welcomed the opportunity to continue its long-term partnership with the Premier League, with Stephen van Rooyen, chief executive officer, UK & Europe, commenting: "We are proud to have been part of the success of the Premier League from the very beginning and we have worked hard this year to provide support through the challenges of the pandemic and prove the enduring strength and depth of our partnership.
"As well as being great news for our customers, the proposed renewal will support the whole football pyramid and give much needed stability and certainty. "
The FA welcomed the deal, with their chief executive officer Mark Bullingham stating: "This increased funding from the Premier League will provide vital support for local football clubs and facilities across the country.
"These clubs are often the bedrock of their community and run by volunteers who have gone above and beyond in the last year. We thank the Premier League for their positive action which will help the pyramid get back on its feet."
