RTL Deutschland will broadcast more Bundesliga matches on free television than ever before during the upcoming season, following the European Commission’s approval of its takeover of Sky. According to RTL Deutschland CEO Stephan Schmitter, speaking to the media magazine DWDL.de, the network plans to air up to ten matches from the 1st and 2nd Bundesliga on its free-to-air channels, constrained only by what is license-legally possible.
Expanding Free-to-Air Bundesliga Coverage Under the Sky Agreement
The push to bring live matches to free television aims to make the competition accessible to audiences regardless of financial barriers, according to Stephan Schmitter’s interview with DWDL.de. The broadcasts will feature floodlight matches, serving as promotional exposure for the Bundesliga package at Sky. Schmitter emphasized to DWDL.de that Sky remains the home of the Bundesliga, while the free-to-air games function to draw broader public interest.
This development follows the formal clearance granted by the European Commission regarding RTL Deutschland’s takeover of Sky. While specific fixture dates remain unannounced, the arrangement targets up to ten live fixtures across the two professional tiers per season.
Broadcasting Rights and DFB-Pokal Distribution Plans
Beyond league fixtures, RTL Deutschland intends to utilize its streaming platform, RTL+, to distribute all 63 matches of the DFB-Pokal tournament for the upcoming season, as outlined by Stephan Schmitter to DWDL.de. This strategy targets supporters of clubs whose games are otherwise rarely broadcast live.
RTL Deutschland will also show the Europa League in the next season on Sky in addition to RTL+, allowing Sky subscribers access to those matches alongside the streaming platform. Fans evaluating viewing options can access monthly RTL+ Premium subscriptions for 9.99 euros, providing a cost-effective alternative for following specific tournament rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bundesliga matches will air on RTL free TV?
According to RTL Deutschland CEO Stephan Schmitter’s statements reported by DWDL.de, the network plans to broadcast up to ten matches from the 1st and 2nd Bundesliga combined on free television, depending on license agreements.
Where can fans watch the DFB-Pokal matches?
All 63 matches of the DFB-Pokal tournament will be available on RTL+, providing live coverage of matchups featuring smaller clubs, as detailed by DWDL.de.
What is the cost of accessing RTL+ for sports coverage?
Monthly RTL+ Premium subscriptions are priced at 9.99 euros, offering access to tournament broadcasts such as the DFB-Pokal.
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