LaLiga Returns to free-to-Air Television in Spain with RTVE and DAZN Partnership
In a important development for Spanish football fans, LaLiga will once again be accessible on free-to-air television.Public-service broadcaster RTVE has reached a sub-licensing agreement with DAZN,the current rights holder,to broadcast one live match each gameweek for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. The partnership begins tonight, January 16th, with the match between Espanyol and Girona [1].
Expanding Access to LaLiga
This deal marks a pivotal shift in how Spanish football is consumed, offering wider accessibility to a broader audience.DAZN currently holds the rights to five matches per matchweek, with one already designated as a free offering. However, this “freemium” model required users to create an account, limiting immediate access. RTVE’s broadcast on its Teledeporte terrestrial channel removes this barrier,providing open access to a larger viewership.
The move is strategically important for both broadcasters. For DAZN, it ensures continued exposure for LaLiga matches while possibly attracting new subscribers to its premium service. DAZN’s long-term commitment to LaLiga, secured through a rights renewal in November extending to 2032, suggests they will continue to explore free-to-air options beyond the 2025-26 season. This partnership allows them to test and refine that strategy.
A Historic Return to public service television
The return of LaLiga to public service television is a rare occurrence. This is only the second time in 35 years that matches will be shown on a free-to-air channel, with the previous instance being the 2015-16 season – the first time as 1989-90.this highlights the meaning of the current agreement and its potential impact on the league’s reach and popularity.
RTVE’s Growing Sports Portfolio
This partnership with DAZN is part of a broader strategy by RTVE to bolster its sports programming. In October, RTVE secured the rights to the Copa del Rey, granting them live and exclusive coverage of up to 116 matches annually through the 2026-27 season [1]. Furthermore, RTVE is set to broadcast the prestigious 2026 FIFA World cup, with Spain as a strong contender, and the UEFA European Championships in 2028.
RTVE’s investment in sports rights has exceeded €360 million in recent years, encompassing major events like the 2028 and 2032 Olympic games, the 2026 and 2030 Winter Olympics, cycling’s Tour de France (through 2030), and the all-electric Formula E series. this demonstrates a clear commitment to providing comprehensive sports coverage to its audience.
Implications for the Future of LaLiga Broadcasting
The collaboration between RTVE and DAZN signals a potential shift in the broadcasting landscape for LaLiga. While DAZN maintains its position as the primary rights holder, the inclusion of a free-to-air component broadens the league’s appeal and accessibility.This model could serve as a blueprint for other leagues and broadcasters seeking to balance revenue generation with wider audience reach.
The success of this partnership will likely be closely monitored by other European football leagues and broadcasters.It could pave the way for similar arrangements, ensuring that top-tier football remains accessible to fans across various platforms.
Published: 2026/01/23 08:48:16
