'New strategy' for Viaplay service that broadcasts Northern Ireland, Ulster and Belfast Giants fixtures

​The Irish Football Association is “awaiting further details” following news of broadcaster Viaplay’s plan to focus on ‘core’ operations outside the UK.
By Patrick Van Dort
Published 20th Jul 2023, 20:05 BST
Updated 20th Jul 2023, 20:05 BST
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​The Nordic broadcaster’s schedule has featured coverage of Northern Ireland internationals in the UEFA Nations League and European Championships qualifying programme.

Other sports have included Ulster games in the United Rugby Championship and Belfast Giants’ Elite Ice Hockey League.

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Viaplay – which purchased Premier Sports last year – have announced it will be laying off 25 per cent of staff.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill speaks with his players during a water break in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, Belfast. (Photo by Liam McBurney/PA Wire)Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill speaks with his players during a water break in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, Belfast. (Photo by Liam McBurney/PA Wire)
Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill speaks with his players during a water break in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, Belfast. (Photo by Liam McBurney/PA Wire)

The IFA statement highlighted how “the broadcast contract is with UEFA and we are awaiting further details”.

A statement by Viaplay’s Jorgen Madsen Lindemann included how “we are today announcing a new strategy and plan, which includes, but is not limited to, focusing on our core Nordic, Netherlands and Viaplay Select operations; implementing a new operational model; downsizing, partnering or exiting our other international markets”.

Related topics:UlsterUEFA Nations LeagueNetherlands