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Deleted member 1169
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I think the issue is deeper than that. Its only my suspicions but I think the test would pass the Saudis.
But the PL dont want them to pass it because of the piracy issue.
Its a unique case. If they allow the Saudis to take over, then the Saudis and Newcastle United will get TV revenue money from the likes of BeIn. But at the same time, the Saudis won't let BeIn broadcast there and have tried to stop legal challenges. In the eyes of the PL they cant have it both ways.
Lots of mags are suggesting Saudi should get its own TV rights, but that would be breach of a longstanding agreement with BeIn and seta a precedent which lowers the value of TV rights. If the Saudi government can get a bespoke deal, why shouldnt other nations? All they have to do is ban the official broadcast partner and buy a club.
So the PL wants this resolved in a way that protects its Golden Egg. But knows if they fail the new owners there will be an expensive appeal and more delay.
Saudi main TV station is state owned as is Telecom Company (the Bskyb failed takeover for Man Utd set a precedent for a TV company to also own a club. Saudi Telecom is owned by PIF) and I do not see any other companies that have the capacity to deliver live sport. Companies like DAZN, Netflix, Amazon may for a vastly reduced fee take a chance but why would they when Saudi haven't respected the PL deal with BEIN. In addition why should BEIN surrender it's rights? They paid 500m for four years and Saudi should be the most lucrative market.