In what is being criticized as a move that prioritizes profit over community access, Virgin Media is poised to strip RTE of the broadcasting rights for League of Ireland games starting in 2025. This decision by the FAI signals a significant shift towards commercialization, sidelining the public broadcaster known for making sports accessible to all, and raising concerns about the potential for increased viewing costs for fans.
Community Access at Risk: Virgin Media Secures Exclusive TV Rights to League of Ireland, Edging Out RTE
All Versions
Jan-17
Sports
Score: 0.50
RTE are set to lose the rights to broadcast League of Ireland games for the 2025 season. In a major blow to the broadcaster’s sports coverage, the FAI are on the brink of handing an exclusive deal for league games to Virgin Media.
From Independent.ie
Jan-17
Sports
Right Variant
Score: 0.80
In a landmark decision that underscores the value of free market competition, Virgin Media is set to become the exclusive broadcaster of League of Ireland games from the 2025 season, breaking RTE's long-standing hold. The move by the FAI to opt for Virgin Media heralds a new era of quality sports coverage and is a testament to the inefficiencies of state-funded broadcasting, potentially leading to a more innovative and engaging viewing experience for fans.
From Independent.ie