German media companies expand broadcasting with AI and new sports channels

generative AI television broadcasting RTL Deutschland Sky Sport NFL content production

German media companies are implementing significant technological and structural changes in sports and entertainment broadcasting.

RTL Deutschland, in partnership with Constantin Entertainment, is launching a pilot project using generative AI to modify existing episodes of the courtroom show ‘Ulrich Wetzel – Das Strafgericht’. Starting September 7, five episodes will feature AI-altered plots, characters, and verdicts, utilizing speech synthesis, image editing, and lip-syncing. The broadcaster describes this as a ‘real-world test’ to explore the future of storytelling, noting that all rights have been cleared with the participating talents.

In sports broadcasting, Sky Sport is launching a new 24/7 channel dedicated to the NFL, providing round-the-clock coverage including ‘NFL RedZone’, live games, and documentaries. This service operates in cooperation with RTL Deutschland, which continues to provide free-to-air NFL coverage.

Additionally, SPORTEUROPE. TV has extended its partnership with the USTA to secure exclusive free-to-air and pay-TV rights for the US Open in Germany and Austria through 2030, ensuring long-term continuity for tennis coverage in the region.