Viewer Access Challenges for Women's Football EM Matches on Viaplay
Tele 2 customers will miss Sweden's EM matches as Viaplay's new sports channel will not be available to them.
Key Points
- • Viaplay launches 'Viaplay Sport' ahead of women's football EM.
- • Tele 2 customers denied access to Sweden's EM matches.
- • Viaplay's sports chief disappointed by Tele 2's decision.
- • Other providers will carry the channel in basic packages.
As women's football enthusiasts prepare for the upcoming EM matches, a significant hurdle has emerged for Tele 2 customers in Sweden. Viaplay is set to launch a new sports channel, Viaplay Sport, on June 27, just in time for the tournament. However, Tele 2 customers will be left in the dark, unable to access the channel and thus missing crucial matches involving Sweden.
Viaplay sports chief Erik Westberg expressed his disappointment over Tele 2’s decision to opt-out of the new channel, which is part of Viaplay's consolidation of multiple broadcasting rights including the Champions League and World Cup events. While Tele 2 customers will miss out, the channel will be available through other providers, such as Telia, Telenor, Allente, and Sappa, who are including it in their basic packages.
This development is especially frustrating given the timing of the EM, as Westberg noted that historical data indicates new channels often see heightened interest when launched alongside major sports events. Despite the setback for Tele 2 subscribers, Viaplay maintains its commitment to broadcasting all Swedish matches, except one which faces scheduling conflicts.