The EFL has today issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for interested parties in respect of its international broadcast rights.
The current five-year agreement with Pitch International expires in the summer of 2022 and the EFL will be looking to make available a minimum of 182 Sky Bet EFL League matches, which includes all end of season Play-Off matches and at least 30 Carabao Cup games, including the final at Wembley Stadium.
Those interested must be able to develop revenue from EFL competitions in non-UK territories, enhance the distribution of EFL broadcast rights, alongside considering how the traditional broadcast opportunities can co-exist with the EFL’s direct to consumer streaming products.
The Sky Bet EFL and Carabao Cup competition is currently available in over 150 overseas territories across weekends, midweeks and, alongside live broadcasts, there is also a mixture of weekly highlights programmes, repeat transmissions and use of clips across social platforms.
Ahead of entering the marketplace, the EFL recruited independent advisor Oliver and Ohlbaum Associates (O&O) who have been providing strategic advice to the League as it seeks to maximise value and exposure for all 72 EFL clubs.
EFL Chief Commercial Officer, Ben Wright said: “Over the past 12-month period we have been working closely with our advisors to establish the best possible approach to the sale of our future international broadcast rights as we near the conclusion of our existing deal and consider current market conditions.
“The RFP contains the appropriate background and detail as to what the EFL is seeking to make available, with all matches to be offered on a multi-platform basis as the League continues to drive global exposure of one of the strongest pyramid structures in world football.
“The EFL continues to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting League competitions as well as being home to a cup competition that consistently offers opportunities for player development alongside showcasing some of the world’s best players.”