October 21 – Germany’s DFL will relaunch its domestic media rights tender on November 25 after a nine-month delay, aiming to finalise deals for the 2025-2029 cycle.
Initially planned for April 2023, the process was halted when DAZN filed a lawsuit challenging the allocation of a key broadcast package to Sky Deutschland.
In September, the German Institute of Arbitration ruled largely in DAZN’s favour, mandating a re-auction of the disputed rights package.
The DFL has responded by putting all 15 media rights packages, covering both live and highlight content, back up for bidding. The league hopes to conclude the process by early 2025, in time for the new rights cycle starting in the 2025-26 season, which will cover Bundesliga, 2.Bundesliga, relegation playoffs, and the German Supercup.
The legal action and subsequent delays highlight an increased competitiveness for media rights in Germany, where streaming giants like DAZN and traditional broadcasters like Sky are vying for dominance in covering the top football leagues.
The current dispute with DAZN mirrors the shift across European football, as more fans switch to digital viewing. The DFL’s next four-year deal could also impact how fans access matches, potentially shifting the balance between TV and online services for millions of German football supporters.
Additionally, the legal challenge has raised concerns about how media rights tenders are conducted in football, with potential ramifications for similar processes in other top European leagues.
The re-auctioning of all 15 packages indicates that the DFL is now seeking to ensure transparency and avoid further legal complications, which could delay the finalisation of a lucrative deal ahead of the next rights cycle.
With just months to go before the new broadcast period, the pressure is mounting for a swift and satisfactory resolution, not just for the clubs, but also for broadcasters.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1735047802labto1735047802ofdlr1735047802owedi1735047802sni@g1735047802niwe.1735047802yrrah1735047802