When the present TV contract for the EFL expires in 2024, Grimsby Town chairman Jason Stockwood acknowledged that he would be in favor of doing away with the 3pm broadcast blackout.
Since the rule was implemented in the 1960s, it has been a topic of contention among football fan bases for a very long time. Recently, it was reported that the EFL was thinking about lifting the ban as part of their new broadcast schedule beginning in 2024.
Many people still maintain that the rule protects attendance in the lower levels as intended, but others who cannot attend their club’s matches for whatever reason are left disappointed that they cannot see the games.
Mariners’ seat In Stockwood’s perspective, the ability to broadcast games at 3pm would not have a negative impact on attendance because football fans who watch games live and those who watch them on television are largely two different groups.
“I think anyone attending live games will know that the choice isn’t typically between that and sitting at home and watching the game,” Stockwood said in a statement to BBC Radio Humberside. You typically attend sporting events for the atmosphere, the chance to hang out with friends, the actual experience, and a number of other factors.
Many people still maintain that the rule protects attendance in the lower levels as intended, but others who cannot attend their club’s matches for whatever reason are left disappointed that they cannot see the games.
“I believe that their audiences are primarily distinct, but there is some crossover, as when I occasionally stream a game if I couldn’t go. The claim that it would drive away supporters shouldn’t matter if you can make the game-going experience more enjoyable than it is in addition to the football itself. Overall, I believe that spectators at games and viewers at home are very different audiences, thus I don’t anticipate much of an impact.
Some teams feel that the £595 million contract with Sky Sports, which devalued the Championship in particular, is problematic at the moment. But the EFL is reportedly looking towards new, bigger deals with streaming companies like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple as prospective broadcasting partners.
According to Stockwood, the possibility of the blackout being lifted as well as the availability of EFL games on other alternative streaming platforms should be seen as a chance to grow.
“If we lean more toward delivering coverage through digital platforms, it provides an opportunity to increase your audience for your clubs,” the Town co-owner stated. That is my personal opinion, and I believe that as a club we are expressing it. I believe that fans who want to attend games may occasionally decide not to, but it is really for those who cannot go to games.
“Having ability to broadcast games at 3 p.m. might expose clubs to a larger audience and boost fan support for a club. Although I am aware that there are arguments in opposition, I believe it may ultimately be advantageous. Some people think it will detract from the present experience, but I think you may pilot it first or test it out to see how it works.
