Italy's Antitrust authority issues Serie A TV rights guidelines

The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) has issued guidelines regarding the upcoming sale of Serie A television rights for the 2029-2034 period. While the league aims to increase its current revenue of approximately 900 million euros, the antitrust regulator has emphasized the need for fairness, transparency, and non-discrimination among operators.

A primary focus of the AGCM is the protection of consumers through the reduction of subscription prices. To foster competition, the authority suggests limiting rights sales to three-year terms rather than five. If a five-year deal is pursued, the AGCM recommends eliminating exclusivity for a significant portion of matches to allow multiple broadcasters to offer competing packages.

The league is preparing the tender for next year, potentially opening the market to new players such as Apple, Disney+, and Paramount, alongside current holders like Sky and DAZN. The guidelines also call for a more balanced distribution of high-profile matches and peak-time slots to ensure all operators can compete effectively. If certain packages remain unsold after private negotiations, the league may consider launching its own pay-per-view channel.