BBC talks could be game-changer for free-to-view Scottish football matches

08 Jan 2025
Sport

Football should be for everyone.

Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay has welcomed the news that BBC Scotland are in live talks to introduce free-to-view coverage of the Scottish men’s football team.

The announcement of live discussions was made by the Director of BBC Scotland, Hayley Valentine, during questions from the Scottish Affairs Committee in the House of Commons.

Ms Mackay has long-called for an end to the reliance on subscription services or pay-to-view channels as part of a campaign to bring football closer to fans. 

Last month Ms Mackay wrote to the Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, urging him to back the growing calls.

Ms Mackay said:

“This news will be welcomed by football fans all over Scotland, who want to back our team but are being priced out of it. I hope that these talks succeed and that we are able to get our national team out from behind a paywall.

“Sport should be for everyone, and I want as many young people as possible to be able to grow up watching their heroes in action. That can help us to ensure that our next generation of footballers can feel inspired and dream of playing for their country.

“Many countries already ensure their games are free to view. It would be great if 2025 is the year that Scotland can finally join them.”