Premier League set for major TV shake-up with new Sunday kickoff time, 25 per cent more games and 3pm blackout discussed
THE Premier League is set for a major shake-up, with 25 more games set to be broadcast in the UK.
The 3pm blackout is also expected to be discussed.
A series of changes to the already-packed football calendar will see at least 50 extra games televised.
Officials have proposed an extra slot for Premier League action at 6:30pm on Sundays, meaning six games will be broadcast every weekend.
In addition to the proposed increase in games on Sunday’s, the next TV agreement is set to make more fixtures available for Friday and Monday slots.
However, this could cause controversy among fans – especially those travelling for away days.
The Community Shield final between Manchester City and Arsenal at Wembley Stadium was brought forward by 90 minutes following a series of complaints from fans making the return journey to Manchester.
There are also discussions surrounding the possibility of dropping the 3pm blackout in a bid to boost the women’s game.
The TV football blackout law was introduced before the inception of the Premier League in 1992.
It is a rule that prohibits any Premier League, Football League or FA Cup match from being broadcasted on live television on Saturday’s between 2:45pm and 5:15pm.
However, the rules could be adjusted now to support the women’s game, with the Women’s Super League continuing to grow.
According to The Telegraph, club executives gathered in London earlier this week to continue talks regarding a code or charter for what they hope will be the first billion pound women’s football league.
Baroness Sue Campbell – FA’s director of women’s football – believes the WSL needs “regular opportunities” in order to continue growing.