The FAI has agreed a unique multi-broadcaster TV deal which will see more than 30 domestic soccer games televised each year and a €400,000 prize fund for the eircom League.
In a groundbreaking five-year agreement, the games will be broadcast by three broadcasters – RTÉ, TG4 and Setanta Sports.
"This new TV package, together with a 400% increase in prizefunding represents a step change for domestic soccer," said the FAI's interim chief executive officer, John Delaney.
"Exposure of the game on TV is vital for the future of the game and the securing of this TV package represents a huge leap forward in terms of bringing the game into people’s homes," he added.
The key elements of the deal are:
- Agreement is for 5 years through to end of 2009 season
Minimum 29 matches to be broadcast during each season.
- Minimum 24 matches live, with 5 “as live” - RTÉ to screen 8 games live – 5 eircom League and 3 Carlsberg FAI Cup
- Setanta to screen 10 eircom League games, 5 live and 5 “as live”
- TG4 to screen 11 games live – 7 eircom League and 4 Carlsberg FAI Cup
- Record prize fund for eircom League increased by 400%
- Total of €400,000 now on offer to eircom League clubs
Commenting on the deal, RTÉ's Head of Sport, Glen Killane, said: "RTÉ are fully committed to the eircom League and to domestic soccer. We are delighted to be extending our partnership with the FAI in that respect, and we look forward to continuing to bring coverage to the widest possible audience."
