The Standard Group has issued a warning regarding broadcasting of the English Premier League (EPL) matches to the public and radio stations in Kenya.
In a notice, on Saturday, August 19, the giant media house stated that it acquired exclusive, sub-licensable analogue and digital radio broadcast rights of live commentaries EPL matches.
This license applies for the 2022/2023, 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 seasons.
“The Group will broadcast the matches on its various radio stations in the Country i.e. Radio Maisha, Vybez Radio, Spice FM, Berur FM and the respective digital platforms,” said SMG.
Further, SG stated that it will take legal action against stations who will air the EPL matches without a sub-license.
“Broadcasting the EPL matches including radio commentaries and digital retransmission, without a valid sub-license from SMG constitutes copyright infringement for which the Group shall be entitled to pursue legal redress,” stated the listed company.
“Any parties interested in acquiring a sub-license for the above rights may contact the Group to commence discussions on the terms thereto,” added SG.
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Sub-Licensable Rights in EPL
In the world of sports broadcasting, the Premier League included, the term “exclusive sub-licensable rights” has gained prominence.
However, it pertains to the complex web of licensing agreements that allow broadcasting companies to showcase EPL matches to eager fans around the globe.
It grants a particular broadcasting company the exclusive authority to showcase and distribute EPL matches within a specific region or market.
This exclusivity prevents other broadcasters from airing the same matches within the designated area, thereby protecting the value of the broadcasting rights acquired.
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However, the term “sub-licensable” adds an interesting twist to this exclusivity.
It can also mean that the company with these rights, like the Standard Group in Kenya, can further sublicense the matches to other entities.
This allows for the distribution of the matches to different platforms, channels, or services, potentially expanding the reach of the Premier League matches to a wider audience.
This strategy not only maximizes exposure but also enhances revenue generation for both the primary licensee and the sublicensees.
2023/2024 Season
The 2023/2024 kicked off on Friday, August 11 with reigning Champions Manchester City having a comfortable win over promoted side Burnley.
Moreover, matches are set to continue every weekend except for international breaks. The three teams that joined the topflight league are Burnley, Shefield and Luton after Southampton, Leicester City and Leeds United were related.
