Sky Sports has recently solidified its long-standing relationship with the NFL by signing a new three-year deal that enhances its programming and accessibility for football fans in the UK and Ireland. This partnership, which now extends over three decades, reflects the increasing popularity of the sport and Sky Sports’ commitment to delivering high-quality coverage to its audience.
As a result of this agreement, fans can anticipate a significant boost in the number of live NFL games available. Sky Sports will offer a first-pick exclusive game every Sunday at 6 p.m. and the primetime slot at 9 p.m. will feature an additional game, enhancing the weekend viewing experience for NFL enthusiasts. This expansion allows fans not only to enjoy their favorite teams but also to engage with more matchups throughout the season.
A groundbreaking aspect of this deal is the commitment to broadcast every London and European game live on Sky Sports. This includes the exciting inaugural NFL games in Ireland and Spain, marking a vital step in promoting NFL’s international presence. Collectively, this new arrangement will see a nearly 50% increase in the number of live matches available to Sky Sports customers, a significant milestone that empowers fans to follow the sport more closely.
Sky Sports will also continue to air the popular NFL RedZone program, along with a comprehensive lineup of games throughout the week, including Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, and Monday Night Football. Special events such as Thanksgiving games, every minute of the playoffs, and the Super Bowl will also be covered, ensuring that fans have access to all the pinnacle moments of the NFL season.
According to Jonathan Licht, Chief Sports Officer for Sky Sports UK and Ireland, the extension of this partnership underlines the network’s goal to provide unmatched value to its customers as the NFL continues to grow in the UK. He highlighted the record-breaking viewership for Super Bowl LVII on Sky Sports, indicating a strong interest in football among British audiences.
The NFL’s perspective on this deal is echoed by Gerrit Meier, Managing Director of NFL International, who emphasizes the UK’s significance in their global strategy. The expanded partnership with Sky Sports is viewed as pivotal in driving NFL fandom across the country, creating a platform for fans to engage with the sport in diverse ways.
Laura Louisy, Director of NFL International Business Development and Media, expressed excitement for the increased coverage available to UK fans, reinforcing the idea that this agreement allows for comprehensive viewing of the NFL season from kickoff to Super Bowl. The partnership aims to enhance the overall experience for fans and represents a testament to the growth of this long-term relationship.
Another significant feature of the new deal is the way that games will be shown across various Sky Sports channels such as SS+ and Mix. The NFL channel, which was launched in 2020, has established itself as a dedicated home for NFL content in the UK and Ireland. This channel, along with live broadcasts on Sky’s other platforms, will ensure that fans can engage with the sport continuously.
The upcoming 2025 NFL season kicks off on September 4, leading to the highly anticipated Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in California. Fans can expect detailed announcements regarding Sky’s plans for the 2025 season, which are sure to enhance the overall viewing experience.
In summary, this new agreement between Sky Sports and the NFL represents a significant step forward for football fans in the UK and Ireland. With more games than ever before, expanded coverage of international matchups, and a commitment to delivering key moments throughout the season, Sky Sports is poised to become the ultimate destination for NFL coverage in the region. This deal not only aims to provide enhanced viewing options but also to foster a deeper connection between the sport and its growing audience across desktop and mobile platforms. As the NFL continues its expansion internationally, Sky Sports remains an essential player in making the sport accessible to new and existing fans alike.
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