The EFL is expected to debate plans to scrap its 3pm TV blackout rule in what could be a significant move for Nottingham Forest supporters.
Clubs will discuss allowing live streams on Saturday afternoons when they meet for an AGM in June, i reports. It is understood that some officials believe the iFollow service could be an important source of extra revenue but others argue it will reduce ticket sales and could do long-term damage.
The league would have to apply to UEFA to change its current blackout period, which has been in place since the 1960s and does not permit matches to be shown on TV or stream between 2.45pm and 5.15pm on Saturdays. An EFL spokesperson is quoted as saying: “The issues around the 3pm blackout will be discussed again in the summer and we wouldn’t rule anything out at this stage. All options would be on the table for the clubs to discuss.”
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Clubs could be given a chance to opt in or out of any changes and negotiate with each other which fixtures are broadcast. The i added: "Another is to replicate the rules used during the pandemic when income from the first 500 iFollow passes sold to the away team is distributed to the team playing at home to mitigate any impact on away ticket sales."
Speaking in October, EFL chair Rick Parry did not rule out the prospect of the law being scrapped. He said: “I don’t see (an end to the blackout) as being essential. Having said that, I don’t necessarily rule it out. We are almost unique in Europe now in having a blackout period. I’m not presuming that it goes, but equally, if we’re looking at streaming, at new technologies and new broadcasters, we will probably have to be open-minded in terms of scheduling."
The EFL's next TV deal is set to start in 2024. Of course, with Forest currently pushing for promotion to the Premier League, Reds fans will be hoping this development does not concern them!
