World Cup unlikely to be shown in 3D

Football mad pubs that had been hoping to show the World Cup in 3D are set for disappointment.

Around 1,000 pubs have signed up to Sky's new service, which is currently only available to commercial customers, and are cashing in by showing Premier League matches.

However the World Cup, which kicks off in June, is to be broadcast on BBC and ITV and as yet no deals have been made to use 3D technology.

Paul Quinn, licensee at Enterprise Inns pub the Pheasant in Newport, said he was still hopeful some games would be broadcast in 3D.

"Hopefully the BBC or ITV will be able to come to a deal at the 11th hour with Sky.

"It would be good for us because 3D has come at the right time just before the World Cup and we like to give our customers the best service. It has proved very popular and given us a boost on match days."

And Thomas Faulkner, manager at the Farmer's Arms in Burnage, Manchester, said: "3D has been going well - unless you are a Manchester United fan who have struggled in those matches.

"It would be a real bonus if something could get sorted out in time for the World Cup."

A spokeswoman for Sky said it was down to those holding the broadcasting rights to pursue the issue.

She said: "We don't hold any rights to the World Cup, so it's for the rights holders to decide if they would like to give football fans the chance to get closer to this summer's action by offering 3D coverage of the finals."

A BBC spokeswoman told The Publican​ there are currently "no plans" to screen games in 3D. It is understood ITV does not plan to show any games in 3D either.

According to research by bar chain Walkabout 27 per cent of fans would pay an entry fee if they were guaranteed to see a key game in 3D.