MPs could today vote on a Liberal Democrat proposal that would transform how British football fans watch the Premier League.
The amendment to the Football Governance Bill would mandate that at least ten top-flight matches be broadcast on free-to-air television each season.
The move aims to dismantle the current paywall system that forces supporters to spend up to £660 annually on subscription packages.
The Liberal Democrats have positioned this as a “free-to-air revolution” that would return the nation’s most popular sporting competition to wider public access.
The Liberal Democrats are confident of the vote that could show up to one match every week for free
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The proposal represents a significant challenge to existing broadcasting arrangements that have dominated Premier League coverage for decades.
Liberal Democrat Culture spokesman Max Wilkinson has urged MPs across party lines to support the amendment.
“For too long, the jewel in the crown of British football has been locked behind an expensive barrier that keeps fans out while lining the pockets of broadcasters,” he stated.
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Sky Sports viewership was down 10 per cent last year
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Wilkinson emphasised the financial burden on supporters, saying: “Fans are being rinsed of every last penny to watch the beautiful game.”
He also highlighted concerns about accessibility for future generations, noting: “The next generation of Bellinghams and Bronzes are priced out of the chance to see football played at the very top level.
“That must end today – with a free-to-air revolution that gives the Premier League back to the country.”
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The amendment would require the new football regulator to ensure not only Premier League matches but also the League Cup Final and Championship, League One and League Two play-off finals are available without subscription.
The Liberal Democrats favour an approach similar to Spain’s, where La Liga must offer one free match weekly following a 2022 legal change.
The Football Governance Bill, currently at report stage in the Commons, will establish an independent regulator overseeing England’s top five divisions.
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The deal could also include finals that are currently behind the paywall, such as EFL Play-Offs and the Carabao Cup
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A similar amendment was previously tabled at committee stage last month, though the Liberal Democrats express confidence that today’s proposal will secure a vote.
The Government, however, has signalled resistance to the proposal.
Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock previously stated that while “we all want to see more matches being televised free-to-air,” this must be balanced against investment in football.
She warned against risking the billions raised annually through broadcasting deals.
A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson confirmed: “The Government has no plans to review the listed events regime.”
Recent figures reveal concerning trends, with Sky Sports experiencing a 10 per cent drop in Premier League viewing figures last season, whilst TNT Sports saw a 17 per cent year-on-year reduction.
