LaLiga has significantly strengthened its financial firepower and its status as the Premier League's nearest rival after announcing monumental new domestic media rights agreements. The Spanish top flight confirmed deals with sports streamer DAZN and telecommunications giant Telefónica that are worth a combined total exceeding £5 billion for the cycle spanning 2027 to 2032.
A Financial Power Shift in European Football
The new contracts represent a substantial nine per cent uplift on the league's current arrangements. When combined with its international broadcast income, LaLiga's media rights will now be valued at approximately €1.95 billion per season. This figure positions it firmly as Europe's second-strongest league, commanding around 50 per cent more than Germany's Bundesliga and Italy's Serie A. However, it still trails the English Premier League, whose rights are worth roughly double this amount.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas hailed the agreement as crucial for the league's future. "LaLiga's continued growth and record highs are especially significant," he stated. "In today's complex domestic and international landscape, securing over €6.135 billion in domestic rights and an overall growth of nine per cent… is excellent news for the financial sustainability of our clubs."
DAZN and Telefónica Partnership Details
The landmark deal was struck after DAZN increased its investment to secure an equal share of the league's top fixtures, including the iconic El Clásico matches between Barcelona and Real Madrid. It will share these marquee games with long-standing partner Telefónica, the owner of O2. The direct increase from these two broadcasters alone accounts for a six per cent rise in value.
This growth is particularly notable as media rights values have been stagnating or falling for many competitions outside the very elite. The increase is partly predicated on higher fees from commercial premises like bars and for the rights to LaLiga 2, Spain's second division.
Broader Implications and Abroad Plans Scrapped
The financial uplift is also positive news for CVC Capital Partners. The private equity firm invested £1.75 billion in 2021 for an eight per cent stake in LaLiga's commercial revenues over 50 years, a deal whose value is now enhanced.
The announcement follows LaLiga's decision to abandon controversial plans to host a Barcelona versus Villarreal league match in Miami, USA, later this month. The move was originally designed to boost global revenue. While European governing body UEFA granted approval—stating FIFA's rules left it no grounds for refusal—LaLiga and promoter Relevent ultimately cancelled, citing insufficient preparation time and significant hostility from players and clubs involved.
This record-breaking domestic rights deal underscores LaLiga's determined strategy to maximise its revenue streams and solidify its position in football's financial hierarchy, even as its global expansion efforts face practical challenges.
