Millions of soccer enthusiasts could miss out on future World Cup events if the proposal to discontinue Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) moves forward, caution campaigners.
The availability of free-to-air terrestrial broadcast TV is expected to remain secure until the early 2030s, when existing licenses are set to expire.
Recent surveys indicate that a significant portion of the population, about one-third, may struggle to afford the enhanced high-speed broadband necessary for reliably streaming major live sporting events like the World Cup.
Results from a survey of 12,000 voters in 100 closely contested Labour-held constituencies show that 80% believe it is crucial for prominent sports events to remain freely accessible, with 50% deeming it very important.
The survey also reveals that 73% of respondents have watched the World Cup or Euros live on free-to-air TV, and 74% oppose the notion of requiring football enthusiasts to pay for broadband to watch the World Cup, compared to only 10% who support such a change.
The majority, 70%, insist that significant sports events should be ensured to be freely available over the air, rather than contingent on an internet connection.
Transitioning solely to IPTV services would necessitate all viewers to depend on fixed broadband, raising concerns about affordability and accessibility, particularly for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and low-income households.
Campaigners caution that the proposal to phase out DTT would essentially transform major national events into pay-per-view content.
A spokesperson for Broadcast 2040+ expressed, “Discontinuing DTT risks converting shared national experiences into a luxury.” They added, “The World Cup should be a unifying event accessible to the entire nation—not just those with the means to afford fast broadband or multiple subscriptions.”
Labour MP Joe Morris, supporting the initiative, emphasized the unique community experience of watching World Cup matches on free TV and highlighted the potential unpopularity of shifting these moments behind a paywall.
A petition advocating for the protection of free-to-air terrestrial TV has garnered 155,000 signatures.
In response, a Government spokesperson affirmed, “The government remains committed to ensuring continued access to watching the World Cup for years to come, guaranteeing that everyone can partake in the evolving landscape of TV viewing moving towards online platforms.”
