Advanced Television

ESPN snatches mobile EPL rights

April 7, 2010

ESPN has been awarded the exclusive UK mobile highlights rights to all 380 English Premier League soccer matches per season over the next three seasons, starting with the 2010-11 season from August. The rights will allow ESPN to deliver in-match, post-match and customised highlights, including goals, to football fans in the UK.

Lynne Frank, senior vice president and managing director, ESPN EMEA said: “Mobile devices are an indispensible lifeline for football fans, who expect easy, quick access to the latest goals and action wherever they are. Adding these rights will allow us to advance our commitment to delivering great sport across the many screens UK fans use each day. “Since we launched ESPN in the UK less than 250 days ago, we have been dedicated to building the foundation of a long-term relationship with UK sports fans. This is another big step in that process.”

On television, from next season ESPN and ESPN HD will feature live and exclusive coverage of 23 Premier League matches and 25 FA Cup matches. This season ESPN has had a package of 46 live EPL games. Mobile rights are currently held by Sky.

Currently ESPN has no mobile presence and has yet to decide whether it will hook up with one MSO – potentially Virgin – or provide the service through all networks.

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