FAI confirms renegotiation of BSkyB deal
The FAI today confirmed that it had concluded negotiations with BSkyB in light of the Government's new legislation on designation of certain sports fixtures.
The deal will mean that BSkyB will continue to broadcast Ireland's competitive fixtures on a non-exclusive basis in addition to exclusive rights to friendly matches at both senior and under 21 level to the end of season 2006.
Speaking today, Fran Rooney, the Association's Chief Executive Officer, declined to put a value on the new deal but expressed satisfaction at the level of revenue achieved and confirmed that this new deal had established a new level of value for the Association’s property rights.
Mr Rooney confirmed that the FAI had been involved in negotiation with BSkyB for some time and that he had accelerated proceedings since he took up his new role.
In relation to the forthcoming High Court proceedings Mr Rooney said that he was confident that negotiations with terrestrial broadcasters would be concluded in the coming days, which would negate the need to revisit the Four Courts next week.
He reiterated the FAI’s position that the original deal for €7.5m with BSkyB was for the good of football at all levels.
He expressed his confidence that once all deals were in place that the Association would be in a position to continue funding the game at the levels required to consolidate the already excellent work being done throughout the country.
