Media: BT confirms discussions for the possible sale of its BT Sport pay-TV package

"Further to media reports, BT can confirm that early discussions are being held with a number of select strategic partners, to explore ways to generate investment, strengthen our sports business, and help take it to the next stage in its growth. The discussions are confidential and may or may not lead to an outcome," said the British telecommunications operator BT regarding its subsidiary BT Sport (pay-TV), on 29/04/2021.

This follows an article in the Financial Times which reported that BT has instructed Lazard Bank to sell all or part of BT Sport in order to focus on its telecoms business. Discussions have already been held with the OTT platform DAZN, the US e-commerce group Amazon, the media and entertainment conglomerate The Walt Disney Company and private equity firms. The deal could involve the complete disposal of BT Sport, the formation of a joint venture or partnership with a media company, or the sale of a stake in the company to attract outside investment.

In the nine months to 31/12/2020 (annual accounts closed 31/03), BT posted revenues of £16.058bn (€18.5bn), down 7% on…