Story from The Times
The streaming platform DAZN is stepping up efforts to buy BT Sport, therefore taking over the pay-TV channel’s rights to show Premier League and Gallagher Premiership rugby matches, according to broadcasting industry sources.
The takeover may have to be approved by the Premier League, however. BT Sport is a major rights holder and such contracts would usually include a change of ownership clause, but it is understood that the Premier League has yet to be asked for its approval.
DAZN’s interest is believed to be two-fold — it would give the platform access to domestic Premier League rights in the UK as it seeks to boost its position in the British market. Buying BT Sport would also give it a ready-made production centre.
The first signs of a concerted effort by DAZN to target the UK came in July when it signed a five-year deal with the promoter Matchroom to cover boxing.
The possible takeover has not stopped BT Sport from pursuing sports rights. It is expected to seal a deal to show England’s Ashes tour to Australia this autumn.
DAZN’s chairman Kevin Mayer hinted at a takeover this week at the Royal Television Society Cambridge Convention, replying “possibly” when asked whether it could buy BT Sport, adding that DAZN “would love to have the EPL”.