SPFL reveal illegal streaming crackdown as Neil Doncaster sends warning to 'freeloading' boozers
14 pubs and other licensed premises have been hauled up by the governing body after illegally streaming games without the proper Sky agreements in place.
The SPFL have vowed to continue their crusade against illegal streaming as they ramp up their bid to prevent unauthorised broadcasts being shown in pubs and other licensed premises in partnership with Sky Sports.
Sky have the exclusive SPFL rights for Scottish Premiership clashes and showcased Rangers' visit to Livingston on the opening day of the season, before Celtic's Flag Day coronation got under way in Glasgow's east end before the victory over Aberdeen. To show these league clashes licensed premises, or any other commercial premises wanting to show live league matches in their venue, should have a commercial subscription agreement with Sky.
The governing body have showcased the latest of their anti-piracy programme, with unauthorised leagues matches being shown in commercial premises are detected and with legal action taken in some cases. A statement released from the SPFL states: "This action is taken to protect the investment of those that show legitimate broadcasts of cinch SPFL matches and other sport content."
Last season 14 interim interdicts, also known as temporary injunctions were granted in Edinburgh's Court of Session against the licensees, preventing them from showing unauthorised broadcasts of cinch SPFL Premiership matches whilst the court actions were ongoing. Three permanent interdicts were also put in place.
Mason Arms in Airdrie as well as Glasgow-based Lord Nelson Bar and Strathspey Bar have been prevented from showing live broadcasts without an agreement from Sky. They must also pay the SPFL’s legal costs and fund the publication of notices advertising the orders in local press.
Chief executive of the SPFL Neil Doncaster said: “These interdicts clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of our nationwide detection and enforcement campaign. The SPFL is one of the most exciting leagues in the world and is hugely popular in pubs, bars and hotels all over the country.
“However, showing matches without paying the necessary licence fee is freeloading, pure and simple and we will continue to be vigilant so we can protect the interests of our clubs and all the licensees who do the right thing and subscribe with Sky Sports to show cinch SPFL games in the season ahead.”
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