Sky and ESPN win SPL broadcast rights

Scottish Premier League (SPL) games are to be available on the Sky Ultimate package after Sky and ESPN won broadcast rights for the next five seasons.

Each broadcaster will show 30 live games each season across the UK and Ireland, starting with the 2009/10 campaign this August. All will be accessible via Sky Ultimate and be in high definition.

The deal will cover three years initially, with the SPL having a two-year extension option.

It follows news that Sky is freezing prices for its basic and Ultimate packages for the coming season.

Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said: "This new deal gives Sky Sports viewers 30 live matches a year, including each of the Old Firm games, all in HD.

"And it gives the Scottish Premier League clubs stability and continued investment from committed partners. Sky Sports has covered the Scottish game since our launch 18 years ago - we are long term supporters.

"We are now looking forward to showing the Clydesdale Bank Premier League, alongside Scotland internationals and the Scottish Cup, for the next five years."

Lex Gold, chairman of the SPL, said: "We are pleased that in just over three weeks we have been able to strike this deal. Sky and ESPN are two of the biggest names in sports broadcasting and they will bring first class production standards and a wide audience to the table.

"We are looking forward to working with both in the coming years to raise the profile of the SPL for our clubs, fans and partners."