Ellesmere Port and Bromborough MP Justin Madders has written to TNT Sports urging the broadcaster to make this year’s Champions League final available on free-to-air television.
Despite being a Manchester United fan, Mr Madders said it was “a real shame” the final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday 30 May will only be available behind a paywall.
It is believed to be the first time since the competition was rebranded as the Champions League in 1992 that the final has not been made available free-to-air in the UK.
In a letter to Andrew Georgiou, President & Managing Director of WBD Sports Europe, Mr Madders wrote:
“I am writing regarding the upcoming Champions League final involving Arsenal.
“While football rivalries will always exist, I join many people across the country in wanting the final to be a success for English football and for an English club to achieve victory on the European stage. Matches of this significance become national occasions that bring people together well beyond the clubs directly involved.
“It is therefore deeply disappointing that such an important fixture will not be available free-to-air for the wider public to enjoy. Many families, young supporters and older fans alike will be unable to watch one of the biggest matches in European football because it sits behind a subscription paywall.”
The MP added:
“Events of this scale are rare moments of national unity and sporting pride. At a time when football remains such a central part of our national culture, there is a strong public interest argument for ensuring that the country can come together to support an English team in a major European final.
“I would therefore urge TNT Sports to reconsider its position and explore every possible option to make the Champions League final available free-to-air for the nation to enjoy.”
Mr Madders hopes to speak with TNT Sports within the next few days regarding the broadcaster’s position.
Pictured - Justin Madders MP playing walking football for the UK Parliamentary Football Club against the Parkinson’s England Walking Football team during a recent match.
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