Scottish football seeks to end 3pm TV blackout in new broadcast deal

Scottish football has taken initial steps to potentially end the 3pm television blackout as it prepares for the next broadcast cycle, starting in the 2029-30 season. The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) is flexible regarding the number of matches included in the deal, which may allow for live coverage of all games, including Saturday afternoons. Currently, matches in the UK cannot be broadcast live during traditional kick-off times due to concerns over attendance impacts. The SPFL has issued a tender focusing on flexibility without imposing UEFA's Article 48 restrictions, which enable blackout enforcement. A pivotal decision on the blackout is expected in the coming months, aligning with the end of rights deals for the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL in 2028-29.

• 5:43 PMBBC Sport — Scottish football could pave way for 3pm TV blackout to end