BBC to show Champions League highlights for free in Match of the Day-style show after reaching agreement for 2024 season
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE highlights will be shown for free on the BBC from 2024.
Footy fans will be able to enjoy a Match of the Day-style show each Wednesday after a three-year deal was agreed with Uefa.
Starting from the 2024/25 season, the highlights package will be available on TV, iPlayer and online.
The same campaign sees the Champions League expand from 32 to 36 teams.
A new format will create one single group, with each side playing eight matches.
The top eight will automatically reach the knockout stages, while positions 9-24 will play a two-legged showdown to fill the remaining positions.
The news comes with Amazon set to secure a joint deal with BT Sport to air live Champions League matches between 2024 and 2027.
BBC Director of Sport Barbara Slater said: “We are simply thrilled to have won these rights.
“Our reach and ability to bring people together is unrivalled and we couldn’t be more delighted that Uefa has recognised the value in our ability to bring the Uefa Champions League to the widest possible audience across the UK.
“This package of highlights and digital content will allow football fans to follow the Uefa Champions League, wherever and however they like.
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“The Uefa Champions League is a wonderful addition to our portfolio of football output on the BBC and we can’t wait to get started in 2024.”
Guy-Laurent Epstein, Uefa marketing director, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with the BBC in the UK for 2024-2027, as it broadcasts Uefa Champions League Wednesday highlights for the very first time.
“The BBC brand is synonymous with premium sport, and it will apply its extensive expertise in delivering wide-reaching Uefa Champions League coverage for fans in the market.”
Real Madrid are the current Champions League holders after beating Liverpool 1-0 in May’s final.
But the match was overshadowed by chaotic scenes outside the Stade de France in Paris.
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Real are also the record holders in the competition, with an astonishing 14 wins.
And such is their prowess in the Champions League, Real are sure to remain among the top contenders when the BBC begins broadcasting highlights.