SPL TV Anyone??

It would appear the SPL are once again exploring the possibility of establishing their own TV channel, is it a goer this time??

After giving up on the idea nine years ago the SPL have once again come up with the idea of setting up their own TV channel to try to maximise the income from that particular revenue stream.

There is a widely held belied that the current deal with Sky and ESPN under values the product and as a result the clubs should be getting more money from other sources.

The SPL have appointed IMG Media to investigate the feasibility in the current climate.

The SPL are looking at three USPs to attract greater TV revenue;

1. Starting in July, when there is little competitive football for Sky to cover
2. Relegation play offs – to generate excitement!!
3. No split – yes, it could be gone with a 10 team League of course.

You have to wonder if this is a serious proposition or whether this is a weak bargaining chip to show Sky there is another show in town to help hike up the price they may be prepared to pay.

There is a set up cost for the SPL’s own channel and a lag between setting up the channel and the revenue coming in as subscriber numbers build up. This means there could be a short term spell when no money is coming in – not something club bosses will be looking for!