US sports broadcaster ESPN has begun removing its videos from YouTube due to apparent concerns over rights issues ahead of the launch of the video-sharing website’s new subscription service.
YouTube Red, which is due to launch in the US today (Wednesday), will enable users to access original and exclusive video content. Unlike standard YouTube videos, Red will not feature any adverts. ESPN and YouTube declined to disclose the specific legal issues.
The withdrawal of content comes despite Walt Disney, the media company that owns ESPN, having signed up to the new subscription service. ESPN said fans can visit its own websites for sports video content instead.
YouTube began sending out contracts to its creators six months ago to sign new terms to allow them to participate in revenue from Red subscriptions. Those that do not participate will have their videos turned to private in the US.