The rights deal represents a major shift in the broadcasting landscape,as it is the most significant sports deal ever to go to a streaming service without an attached free-to-air partner.
It is also a clear indication that whilequotas for scripted content remain an unresolved issue,the next great battleground is likely to be over sports rights.
News of the deal comes just two weeks after the 2023 cricket World Cup final played out on free-to-air TV,and a week after the federal government reaffirmed its commitment to sports anti-siphoning measures.
Under the anti-siphoning legislation,the provisions of which Communications Minister Michelle Rowland last week indicated would be extended for another three years,particular sporting events deemed to be of national significance are quarantined for broadcast on free services. If no free service takes up those rights they can then be picked up by a paid service.
Lobby group Free TV last week hailed the imminent extension of the anti-siphoning list by the government.
“Being able to share in the sporting moments that bring Australians together as a nation is fundamental to our community,” said chief executive Bridget Fair. “It’s important that the government has reaffirmed that live and free access to key sporting events remains a central part of the Australian way of life.