BT has decided to bring more competition into the digital TV
and sports broadcasting sectors with its recent buyout of
ESPN.
ESPN, previously owned by Disney, will give BT exclusive access
to "a host of US sports currently shown on ESPN America".
This will make the telecoms giant a solid competitor to Sky, which
has been the dominant force in sports broadcasting.
Currently in BT's digital TV and sports broadcasting shopping
basket:
- Live FA Cup coverage until the end of the 2013/14 season
- UEFA Europa League and German Bundesliga until the end of the
2014/15 season
- Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League until the end of the
2016/17 football season
In addition, last summer, the provider bought rights to air 46
live Premier League games for three years.
BT Retail's chief executive of television, Marc
Watson, commented:
"The FA Cup, Scottish Premier League and Europa League
rights will allow us to offer customers of BT Sport even more
quality live football, including our first games from the Scottish
top flight and our first European competition rights. There will
also be the best of US sports available courtesy of this deal,
which will further broaden the appeal of BT Sport."
What does it mean for me?
This is great news for consumers and sports lovers as the deal
will result in more exciting content and more competitive prices
for digital TV sports packages in the near future. Have a look at
the best digital TV packages currently available on the top right
hand side.
Which digital TV deal should I go for?
If you need help picking a digital TV package that's right for
you, give us a call on 0808 256 6606 and we will
help you find, sign up or switch to a package that works for
you.