BT Vision signs contract for Sky Sports channels

Good day to sell football

BT has agreed terms with Sky to offer its premium sports channels, after Ofcom forced the satellite broadcaster to offer them to rivals at capped prices.

The contract means BT Vision subscribers will be offered Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2 from 1 August, in time for the start of the football season on 14 August.

BT hasn't revealed pricing for the package. Via satellite the channels cost £9 per month each, on top of a basic subscription.

Sky battled Ofcom for two years to try to avoid price controls on its premium channels. In March this year, however, the regulator ordered a cut of 23 per cent in the wholesale price.

The ruling prompted an outcry on Sky's behalf from sport governing bodies, who have lucrative exclusive arrangements with the broadcaster. A legal challenge is expected. ®