Broadcasting Premier League Television

Premier League obtains High Court Order to combat illicit streaming devices

July 26, 2017

The Premier League has today obtained a High Court Order that will require UK Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block servers that host illegal streams of matches ahead of the 2017-18 season.

The Order is set to allow the organisation to combat the use and sale of illicit streaming devices as it steps up its anti-piracy efforts by targeting pre-loaded IPTV and so-called ‘Kodi’ boxes.

Kevin Plumb, Premier League Director of Legal Services, said: “This blocking Order is a game-changer in our efforts to tackle the supply and use of illicit streams of our content.

“It will allow us to quickly and effectively block and disrupt the illegal broadcast of Premier League football via any means, including so called ‘pre-loaded Kodi boxes’.

“The protection of our copyright, and the investment made by our broadcast partners, is hugely important to the Premier League and the future health of English football.

“The ability that clubs have to develop and acquire talented players, to build and improve stadiums, and to support communities and schools is all predicated on being able to market, sell and protect commercial rights.

“We are pleased the Courts have recognised this with the granting of this significant blocking Order.”

A number of apps and add-ons offering streaming services have been closed down in recent years while a similar Order obtained for the final two months of the 2016-17 was deemed to be highly effective.

The Premier League is the most commercially successful division in world football, with their current three-year TV rights deal with Sky and BT Sport worth £5.136bn.

 

Broadcasting Premier League Television