Pay-television broadcaster Setanta Sports has expressed its interest in acquiring the English Premier League football highlights rights in Ireland vacated by public-service broadcaster RTÉ, according to the Irish Independent newspaper.
RTÉ confirmed yesterday (Thursday) that it will end its coverage of the EPL amid cost-cutting measures. The broadcaster will not engage in negotiations over a new three-year contract for the exclusive rights in Ireland to show highlights of the Premier League.
RTÉ’s decision means the EPL is currently without a highlights partner in Ireland for its forthcoming 2013-14 season.
A Setanta Sports spokesman said: “The rights haven't been offered, but if they were we would certainly look at them as we are always keen to grow our Premier League coverage. If they wish, they will offer the rights again to maybe terrestrial and paid television, and if that happens we would absolutely be interested.”
However, it remains unclear whether the Premier League will enter negotiations with other Irish broadcasters.
A Premier League spokesman said: “RTE has put out this statement, that's their choice and that's what happened, but we're not in a position to say what we may or may not do with the highlights package.”