SPFL face another challenge as BT Sport understood to want £3m

Rangers had claimed last month that the league could be liable for £10m in refunds
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The SPFL could be faced with a hefty bill from BT Sport following the termination of the 2019/20 campaign.

The broadcaster are on the hunt for £3million, according to the Scottish Sun.

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A deal was struck by the league body with Sky Sports – who will have sole broadcasting rights when their five-year deal begins in August – for games the company missed from last season, including two Old Firm matches.

BT Sport could seek £3m in compensation. Picture: SNSBT Sport could seek £3m in compensation. Picture: SNS
BT Sport could seek £3m in compensation. Picture: SNS

Earlier this month, SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “This is an innovative and pragmatic solution to the challenges posed by Covid-19 and I’m grateful for the flexibility shown by our clubs and by Sky Sports.

“This agreement means that any liability for games not delivered during Season 2019/20 has now been settled, on terms that reflect Sky’s status as a committed partner and supporter of Scottish football.”

BT Sport, who lost out on the rights to league action to Sky, are looking for compensation for the matches they missed, while BBC Sport, according to the report, are also seeking recompense for the coverage they missed out on.

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The league was terminated following an SPFL resolution which saw the four divisions decided on a points-per-game basis.

The Times report that a settlement for £2.5million with BT Sport is nearing agreement with money used to pay the broadcaster coming from a pot which is to be given to the 42 member clubs this year.

Amidst the fallout, Rangers put forward a dossier which said the league could be liable for around £10million in refunds from broadcasters and sponsors, and that it was not made clear to clubs when voting on the resolution.

The SPFL hit back at Rangers in an open letter to member clubs.

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“There is no question of the board failing to advise the clubs of a potential £10 million (or any other size of claim) arising because the Premiership is brought to a premature end because of a decision either of the members or of the board,” it read.

“That was not reported to you because it is simply not the case. The central complaint of Rangers is simply wrong and is based on a complete misunderstanding of the situation in which the League and its broadcast partners find themselves.”

The SPFL also face a legal challenge from Hearts and Partick Thistle who have joined forces following their relegation after league reconstruction was rejected.