Scottish football has taken the first tentative steps toward ending the UK's 3pm television blackout. The SPFL is seeking offers for the 2029-30 broadcast cycle and is flexible about the number of games that will form part of the new deal. BBC Sport understands this includes the possibility that broadcasters could bid to show all matches live, including those on Saturday afternoon.
The SPFL has created a tender with the greatest flexibility on the basis that the broadcaster does not seek to impose Article 48 of the Uefa Statutes. While other parts of Europe have experimented with a blackout, it is now only present in the UK between 2:45pm and 5:15pm on a Saturday. The blackout was introduced due to fears that televised games at 3pm could affect attendances.
Critics argue that as streaming has grown, the blackout hinders clubs' ability to exploit revenue streams, especially in lower levels. In August, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters indicated the direction of travel was to end the blackout, but any decision would be 18 months away. The upcoming broadcast cycle provides a unique opportunity for all leagues to come together and reach a consensus.
Under the current terms, Sky Sports can show up to 60 Premiership matches a season, with Premier Sports showing up to 22. Only 36% of matches are shown live under the current deal. Any decision would be up to the Premiership's 12 member clubs, with eight votes required to approve a deal.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing