The DFL has put out to tender the TV rights for the Bundesliga seasons from 2025/26 to 2028/29. Fans have to prepare for numerous changes to the broadcast.
The Bundesliga rights will be reassigned for the new season. (Source: rafapress/depositphotos.com)
The good news first: starting next season, a subscription could be enough to see all Bundesliga games again. For the first time since 2012, there is no longer a ban on sole acquisition when allocating rights. The Federal Cartel Office has waived the German Football League (DFL) from making such a mandatory requirement in the tender. The so-called no-single-buyer rule has been overturned.
It remains to be seen whether the Bundesliga will be shown in its entirety on Sky, as in previous years, or whether DAZN will outdo its competitors, as was the case with the acquisition of the Champions League rights. Apple is also said to be interested in the Bundesliga. The abolition of the no-single-buyer rule is likely to fuel similar rumors again. Because the manufacturer from Cupertino is considered a fan of exclusive contracts when it comes to sports rights.
The no-single-buyer rule falls, packages are redesigned
If several providers come into play again, fans will have to get used to it. Until now, the Friday and Sunday games were bundled in a package that DAZN acquired in the last tender. In the new tender, however, the Friday and Saturday games are bundled as individual games in one package.
The games on Sunday can be purchased individually, and there is also a package that includes the Bundesliga conference on Saturday and one that only includes the top game on Saturday evening. Theoretically, the Bundesliga can run with four providers from the new season. However, in the last tender, Sky acquired three of the four packages. As mentioned, DAZN grabbed the Friday and Sunday games.
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