In the ongoing saga surrounding the future of media rights in Portuguese professional football, Liga Portugal has issued a definitive statement clarifying its position on the centralization of audiovisual rights. The league`s message is unequivocal: the process is moving forward.
This reinforcement from Liga Portugal comes on the heels of a formal request by one of the nation`s prominent clubs, SL Benfica, to delay the implementation of this structural reform. Benfica reportedly communicated their concerns via a letter sent to both the league and other clubs.
Liga Portugal acknowledged Benfica`s concerns in its communiqué, stating that it has taken note of the points raised by the club. Interestingly, the league even conceded that some of these concerns are, in fact, “shared by the current Directorate.” However, this shared understanding does not translate to a pause in proceedings. The league maintains that the centralization process represents a “structural transformation critical for the future of Professional Football in Portugal.”
Putting words into action, the Liga`s current Executive Directorate, which has been in office for a relatively short period (84 days, as highlighted by the league), has actively pursued this agenda. Their recent activities include initiating meetings with both national and international television broadcasters, notably including streaming platforms. This suggests tangible steps are being taken towards market engagement.
Furthermore, the league has been engaging with governmental bodies, competition authorities, and various law enforcement agencies to address crucial related issues, particularly combating piracy. The objective extends beyond mere enforcement, aiming also to educate fans about responsible viewing habits that support their clubs.
International promotion is also on the agenda. Liga Portugal has established contacts with AICEP (the Portuguese Trade and Investment Agency) to enhance the visibility of national football abroad. They have also fostered connections and synergies with Portuguese-speaking countries. Technical exchanges with specialized departments from other European leagues are also underway, seeking to share best practices and bolster the credibility of Portuguese football internationally.
According to the league, this concerted effort has involved increasing participation from the football societies (clubs), many of whom reportedly recognize the progress made. The stated goal aligns directly with governmental directives: to meet, and potentially even exceed, the timelines established by Decree-Law n.º 22-B/2021 concerning the centralization of rights.
The government itself, through the Secretary of State for Sport, Pedro Dias, has commented on the situation, expressing a hope that direct intervention will not be necessary and that a consensus among the stakeholders can be reached.
Despite Benfica`s plea for a delay, the message from Liga Portugal remains resolute. The Executive Directorate reaffirmed its stance with conviction: the centralization of audiovisual rights is happening. It is framed as a fundamental commitment to the clubs, the fans, and the long-term sustainability of national football. The league concludes, perhaps with a touch of aspirational irony given the current friction, that they intend to achieve this significant step “with everyone – without exception.”
