Scottish Professional Football League Considers Ending Saturday 3pm TV Blackout

Potential Change in Broadcast Strategy

The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has initiated the tender process for its broadcast rights starting from the 2029-30 season. In a move that could reshape how fans consume matches, the league has signaled flexibility regarding the number of games available for live broadcast. This tender theoretically allows broadcasters to propose showing all matches, including those traditionally held during the Saturday afternoon blackout window.

The Article 48 Context

Currently, football matches in the UK are prohibited from being broadcast live between 2:45pm and 5:15pm on Saturdays under Uefa’s Article 48. This rule aims to protect matchday attendances across the football pyramid. However, the rule can only be enforced if 50% of matches in a country's top two divisions are played simultaneously. By staggering kick-off times, leagues can technically circumvent this restriction.

Key Considerations for the Future

• Revenue Potential: Clubs are increasingly looking toward streaming as a vital revenue source, leading some to argue that the blackout is outdated.
• Decision Process: Any proposal to include Saturday 3pm matches would require approval from at least eight of the 12 Scottish Premiership clubs.
• Broader Implications: While Scotland is exploring these options, decisions in England remain separate. The Premier League has indicated a long-term interest in evaluating the blackout, though any potential changes would involve consultation with the EFL and FA.
• Current Rights: Under existing agreements, only about 36% of top-flight Scottish matches are televised.

The SPFL has not confirmed that the blackout will end; rather, it has invited broadcasters to present their own models for consideration. Interested parties can verify specific details by reviewing the official SPFL tender documents once finalized.