According to The 42, RTÉ has been outbid by Virgin Media for coverage of the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division. Virgin Media are appearing to be in a place where they will be the primary broadcaster of the Irish top flight. Virgin Media have committed to showing double the number of matches as RTÉ while also increasing TV revenue for Irish clubs.
In 2024 the two broadcasters shared coverage of 29 matches in the Men’s Premier Division, achieving a 42% rise in viewership in contrast to 2023 (Figures via FAI).
While no official decision has been made, it cannot be long until we find out the future of broadcasting in Ireland’s top flight.
Virgin Media plan to show a minimum of 36 league matches with FAI Cup and European rights on the table. A loss of the rights could be a detrimental start to RTÉ’s 2025 sports broadcasting. The season officially begins in less than 30 days. As Shelbourne look to retain their title it is only a matter of time before we discover what channel fans all over Ireland will be tuning into throughout 2025.
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