RFL rejects BSkyB favouring BBC deal

The Rugby Football League has rebuffed the £53 million five-year contract offer from BSkyB to screen the Tetley’s Super League and international games apparently favouring of a deal with the BBC.
In a statement from the RFL Board, said that the decision was reached in “the interests of the whole sport of Rugby League including the Tetley’s Rugby Super League, the international game and the game at all other levels.”
However, it is believed that the RFL are keen to have game coverage returned to terrestrial television in a bid to increase match attendance.
The RFL board said that it felt “unable” to accept the current offer for broadcast rights from BSkyB, and added that it felt discussions should continue with the BBC, also involved in negotiations, and BSkyB to explore ways of reaching an agreement with both parties.
Sky’s current contract, believed to be worth around £46 million, expires at the end of this season.
However, it seems the RFL will continue to negotiate with both the BBC, interested in the rights to screen international matches, and BSkyB, who it hopes will return with a bid for the Super League coverage.
(MM)