Scottish Professional Football League, UEFA and Scottish Premiership clubs
29 October 2026
Scottish football could become the first major UK league system to end the traditional Saturday 3pm television blackout. The SPFL is inviting broadcasters to propose wider live coverage under its next rights agreement, beginning in the 2029-30 season.
The new broadcasting tender allows flexible bids, potentially covering all 228 Premiership matches. Currently, approximately 36% of games are televised. UEFA regulations permit domestic blackout periods, but leagues are not required to impose them. Any new deal would require approval from at least eight of the 12 Premiership clubs. No decision to abolish the blackout has been made.
Why It Matters
Ending the blackout could expand live football access and generate additional broadcasting revenue.