Get ready, UK NFL fans! Sky Sports just dropped a bombshell, signing an incredible new deal to bring more live American football action to your screens than ever before. What does this expanded partnership mean for your game-day viewing experience? Prepare for an unprecedented season!
Sky Sports has officially solidified its commitment to American football fans across the UK and Ireland by signing an expanded three-year deal with the National Football League, promising an unprecedented level of live NFL broadcasts. This landmark agreement ensures that for the first time, more than half of all NFL games will be available live to subscribers, marking a significant enhancement for Gridiron enthusiasts.
Under the terms of this new three-year deal, Sky Sports will significantly boost its live coverage, including the broadcast of a second game at the earlier 6 PM kickoff slot, alongside up to two additional live games during the later evening schedule. Furthermore, the popular dedicated channel, Sky Sports NFL, is set to return each season from September to February, offering comprehensive coverage and analysis for the duration of the agreement.
Jonathan Licht, Sky’s chief sports officer in the UK and Ireland, expressed immense pride in the enduring relationship, stating, “We’re proud to extend our partnership with the NFL beyond 30 years. The sport continues to grow and captivate UK audiences, which we saw first-hand with record-breaking Super Bowl LVII viewership on Sky Sports.”
This renewed commitment underscores the burgeoning popularity of American football within the UK market. The record viewership figures for Super Bowl LVII served as a tangible testament to the sport’s increasing appeal and the significant engagement it garners from dedicated and new fans alike, validating Sky Sports’ investment in these crucial broadcasting rights.
Gerrit Meier, head of NFL International, also highlighted the strategic importance of the UK market. He added, “The UK market continues to be a priority for the NFL internationally, as we look to drive fandom and grow the game at every level around the world.” This statement reaffirms the league’s global expansion ambitions and the UK’s pivotal role in that vision.
Sky Sports has historically played a crucial role in cultivating and expanding the NFL’s fan base in the United Kingdom. Through its consistent and high-quality coverage, the broadcaster has been instrumental in introducing the sport to new audiences and delivering premium content to existing supporters, making it a cornerstone of NFL’s growth story.
The continuation of the Sky Sports NFL channel, specifically tailored for the season from September through February for the next three years, guarantees an immersive experience for fans. This dedicated platform will serve as a hub for all things NFL, offering in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and comprehensive game-day coverage, solidifying its position as the premier destination for NFL in the UK.
This expanded three-year deal not only signifies a robust partnership but also promises an enriched viewing experience for millions. It ensures that the excitement and drama of live NFL broadcasts remain at the forefront of UK sports streaming, further cementing the league’s international presence and fan engagement.