Scottish Greens lead call for Scotland football matches to be on free-to-view TV

15 Nov 2024
Culture

Having the match streamed on YouTube is an improvement on it being behind a costly paywall, but it is no substitute for live free-to-air TV.

As the Scotland men’s teams gear up to face Croatia tonight at Hampden Park, football fans unable to attend will be flicking through TV guides at home with no joy, as once again the important Nations League match will be broadcast on YouTube.

The Nations League is a major tournament linked to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, and could help the Scotland Men’s Team to reach their first World Cup in almost 30 years.

Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay has led calls to have all Scottish international matches on free-to-view television to allow more fans to support their team.

There are grounds for optimism, with the new Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, having previously voiced his support for a deal to be done to secure broadcast rights on free-to-view TV.

Ms Mackay said:

“Particularly at a time like this, many fans are unable to attend games in person. Our national teams are for all of us, and I want all Scotland supporters to be able to view matches like the one tonight as easily as possible.

“By broadcasting matches on television for free we can inspire future generations to watch their team and dream of playing at Hampden. How can we expect children to want to follow in the footsteps of our players if they don’t have the opportunity to see them play?

“Having the match streamed on YouTube is an improvement on it being behind a costly paywall, but it is no substitute for live free-to-air TV. Lots of people do not have internet access and others will feel far less comfortable using it.

“When Scotland games are free-to-view they become bigger events for families across our country. Our results at the Euro Championships may have been disappointing, but the games brought people together, including large numbers who wouldn’t normally watch or consider themselves fans cheering the team on. We lose that opportunity for unity when we put up barriers.

“The Secretary of State for Scotland has indicated his support for a solution in the past. I hope that he will work with the SFA and broadcasters to ensure that Scotland’s football matches are always put on free-to-air channels, so that more people can watch them and join the Tartan Army in supporting our national side.”