Italy: distribution agreement between DAZN & TIM (Telecom Italia) extended until 2029 (press)

The OTT sports platform DAZN has extended its distribution agreement in Italy with telecoms operator Telecom Italia (via its TIM brand) for an additional five seasons over the 2024-2029 cycle, according to several Italian media reports on 27/12/2023.

As part of the deal, Telecom Italia is expected to pay a total of €250m to DAZN, or €50m per year, according to the press. The platform extended its domestic media rights to the Serie A TIM over the 2024-2029 cycle for €700m a year on 23/10/2023. DAZN will continue to broadcast all matches, including seven out of ten on an exclusive basis per matchday, while the pay-TV operator Sky Italia will co-broadcast three games per matchday (€200m per year).

The current distribution agreement between DAZN and TIM, covering the 2021-2024 cycle, became non-exclusive at the start of the 2022-23 season. DAZN had originally signed an exclusive agreement with Telecom Italia for the acquisition of Serie A TIM broadcasting rights in Italy for €840m per season over the 2021-2024 cycle. Telecom Italia would have guaranteed 40% of the amount paid by DAZN…