La Liga TV deal in China leaves Spanish fans fuming

La Liga president Javier Tebas has announced that the Spanish top-flight has agreed to a broadcast deal with China Media Group (CMG) to broadcast Spanish top-flight fixtures in China.

From an outside perspective this seems like an excellent move, China is the second-highest country by population with over 1.4 billion people living within its borders.

However many Spanish fans have discovered an issue with the deal that has left them feeling quite angry at the league’s actions; it will be on free-to-air TV in China.

Spanish fans have an issue with their local football costing them an arm and a leg to watch from the comfort of their own home, whilst people 8,000km away can watch it for free.

Many people on X took to the replies under Tebas’ announcement to air their frustration, with one user saying “In China it’s free and yet you want us to stop piracy here? That Chinese channel will be on our IPTV lists and will be another option. Thanks, Javier.“

Meanwhile, another user said, “Translation: Tebas gives Spanish football to the Chinese, while in Spain it has become a luxury good.”

It is clear to see why these Spanish fans are frustrated, as similarly to most countries, football broadcast packages in the country are rising year on year, with more and more subscriptions being needed to see all the action.

It will remain to be seen if the La Liga president chooses to respond to these concerns from fans, but it looks as though there is little that can be done.

GSFN | Ciaran Currie