The EFL has announced renewed media rights deals with talkSPORT and BBC Radio to enhance coverage for EFL clubs and competitions.
The agreement with both talkSPORT and the BBC runs until the end of the 2027/28 season, with an option for an additional season at the EFL’s discretion, ensuring high-profile coverage and more games than ever before.
Liam Fisher, Head of talkSPORT, stated: “It’s fantastic to be able to extend our exclusive deal with the EFL past the 10-year mark. The Championship, League One and League Two continue to provide some of the most exciting and competitive football in the world and the Play-Offs remain a fascinating end-of-season conclusion.
“Along with the Carabao Cup and Bristol Street Motors Trophy we will be delivering comprehensive live match coverage alongside dedicated complementary output whoever you follow.”
Following the renewal, talkSPORT has secured exclusive live commentary rights. This includes a minimum of 130 live matches and a maximum of 150 in the Sky Bet Championship, at least 15 live matches in Sky Bet League One and League Two, and exclusive coverage of all Sky Bet EFL Play-Off matches across the three divisions.
Furthermore, the deal includes 10 live matches from the Bristol Street Motors Trophy per season.
The radio station also has non-exclusive live commentary rights for up to 30 Carabao Cup matches per season. Additionally, it holds non-exclusive rights to provide score flash updates for all three Sky Bet EFL divisions, the Carabao Cup and the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.
Whereas the BBC holds non-exclusive rights to provide score flash updates for all three Sky Bet EFL divisions, the Carabao Cup and the Bristol Street Motors Trophy. The BBC also has non-exclusive rights to broadcast live commentary for up to 25 Carabao Cup matches, including the final, on BBC Radio 5 Live or 5 Sports Extra.
Heidi Dawson, Controller at BBC Radio 5 Live, said: “The BBC are a long-time partner of the EFL and agreeing this deal to support the wider football pyramid is really important for the BBC. Keeping audiences updated on EFL action and providing live commentary for Carabao Cup games alongside our wider football portfolio is a key element of our offering on BBC Radio 5 Live.”
These new deals, which include more games than before, align with the EFL’s efforts to grow its leagues via media distribution. In March, the organisation approved international TV rights deals with Pitch International and Relevent Sports to broadcast EFL competitions worldwide for the next four years.
Ben Wright, Chief Commercial Officer at the EFL, commented: “We’re delighted to continue working alongside talkSPORT and the BBC as long-time partners of the League and look forward to maximising the potential coverage for our Clubs, competitions and our radio partners.
“talkSPORT’s approach to EFL coverage over recent years has been both innovative and engaging, bringing the storylines and drama of the EFL to fans. The new deal will not only continue that trend, but also sees a strong commitment to supporting the life changing work delivered by our community across England and Wales.
“The new agreement will also see the BBC continue its excellent coverage of the Carabao Cup, whilst also keeping supporters up and down the country informed on the latest EFL action on a match-by-match basis. These are incredibly important components to keep all audiences informed of the action and jeopardy witnessed week-in, week-out across our competitions.”
