Public service broadcasters are stepping up efforts to persuade the UK government to expand the list of sporting events protected for free-to-air TV, with a number of Labour MPs understood to be supportive.
Broadcasters want key properties moved onto the “Group A” list of listed events, known as the ‘crown jewels’, where rights must be made available for live coverage on qualifying free-to-air services, rather than the “Group B” regime that allows pay-TV exclusivity provided adequate highlights are offered free-to-air.
The Guardian reports that the push includes calls to elevate the Six Nations from Group B to Group A, alongside adding the home nations’ men’s and women’s World Cup and European Championship qualifiers, one Champions League match per round involving a British team, and the men’s FA Cup.
BBC and ITV recently renewed their joint Six Nations agreement through 2029, but the broadcasters are still seeking legislative protection amid concern that subscription platforms could outbid them for premium rights as budgets tighten. TNT Sports were rumoured to be bidding for the rugby competition during the latest rights round.
Channel 4 has also expanded its sports slate in recent years, including upcoming Winter Paralympics coverage and new deals around events such as the Boat Races and Women’s FA Cup.
The issue is expected to be discussed by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, with MPs arguing that rising subscription costs and rights fragmentation strengthen the case for ensuring national teams and major events remain widely available regardless of ability to pay.
