Paramount has secured a significant deal to broadcast the UEFA Champions League in the UK and Germany. This agreement will span from 2027 to 2031 and is valued at over $1 billion.
Details of the Champions League Rights Deal
The new rights deal, which exceeds the current cost paid by Warner Bros. Discovery’s TNT, represents a substantial investment for Paramount. Warner Bros. Discovery pays nearly £1 billion, or approximately $1.3 billion, for similar broadcasting rights.
Implications for Paramount and Streaming Services
This move is part of Paramount’s broader strategy to expand its sports portfolio, especially with UEFA. The company already holds the Champions League rights in the U.S. and has previously collaborated with UEFA on films related to the tournament.
Despite the excitement surrounding the acquisition, Paramount has chosen not to comment officially on the matter. Meanwhile, Amazon Prime will maintain its arrangement to broadcast one game each Tuesday in the UK during the same years.
Broader Context in Media Acquisitions
This announcement comes during a tumultuous period for Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. Companies interested in purchasing parts of Warner Bros. Discovery have until today to submit bids. Among the bidders are Paramount, Netflix, and Comcast, with only Paramount showing interest in acquiring the entirety of Warner Bros. Discovery.
Recent Sports Rights Acquisitions
Paramount’s recent moves include securing U.S. rights to the UFC in August through a seven-year deal worth about $7.7 billion. This highlights the company’s commitment to bringing premium sports content to its platforms.
- Champions League Rights Duration: 2027 to 2031
- Value of Champions League Deal: Over $1 billion
- Current Rights Holder: Warner Bros. Discovery (TNT) at £1 billion (~$1.3 billion)
- UFC Deal Value: $7.7 billion for seven years
As the sports broadcasting landscape evolves, Paramount continues to position itself prominently within a competitive market.
