ITV have reached a decision over the prospect of launching a takeover of BT Sport, but it is not good news for those who want to see the Champions League return to terrestrial TV.
It was revealed two weeks ago that BT were considering either a partial or full sale of it sports television division, with several parties interested.
BT Sport currently hold the rights to 52 Premier League matches as well as all of the Champions League and Europa League games each season.
They paid £385million for their Premier League matches for the 2019-2022 period and a massive £1billion for the Champions League rights until 2024.
With BT planning to focus more on broadband and 5G in the coming years, they have begun seeking a partner for the sports TV arm of its business.
ITV were one party who entered into talks, but The Times now report that the broadcaster will not be taking their bid any further and have ruled themselves out of the running.
It is a bitter blow for those who hoped that BT’s attempt at a sale would see the Champions League return to free TV.
The telecoms giants took the rights from ITV in 2015, with the majority of games in the European competition now requiring a subscription to watch.
A statement from BT did reveal that “early discussions were being held with a number of select strategic partners”.
But there has been little movement from the likes of ITV, Amazon, Disney or Discovery towards a bid.
Many fans have been clamouring for the Champions League rights to return to free TV.
“The powers that be need to portion the rights for the Champions League. At least one game per week on terrestrial TV inc the final. All highlights to be on terrestrial TV,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“I’ve been thinking this, time to get champions league back on terrestrial tv,” added another.
