Since Canal+ entered Vietnam in 2010, the cost of English Premier League broadcasting rights has escalated from hundreds of thousands of USD to tens of millions of USD per season. This made the English Premier League (EPL) the most expensive content package in the pay-TV market. In Vietnam, where many fans passionately follow the EPL, the league is considered a "goldmine" for the pay-TV industry.

Despite holding English Premier League rights until the end of the 2027-2028 season, K+ television will not continue broadcasting the league for the remainder of its contract. This decision stems from operational changes by its parent company, Canal+.

This English Premier League season is underway, featuring many high-quality matches from 20 teams. Photo: EPL

K+ is expected to cease broadcasting the English Premier League from 1/1/2026. This presents two possibilities: Vietnamese football fans might not be able to watch the rest of the current season, or another broadcaster could acquire the rights to continue broadcasting the EPL.

Given the league's widespread popularity, the second scenario is more probable. Leading pay-TV providers such as VTVcab, FPT Play, and TV360 possess the financial resources and infrastructure to acquire broadcasting rights for the league soon.

These three broadcasters have experience airing major European leagues during K+'s 15-year tenure with the English Premier League rights. Therefore, fans can be confident in their ability to organize production, commentary, and accompanying programs.

Furthermore, the subscription fees of these broadcasters are currently quite affordable compared to K+. Even if they increase their rates to secure English Premier League rights, the prices would likely remain more suitable for viewers than what they currently pay for K+ services.

Moreover, viewers can anticipate a reasonably priced, dedicated package for those who only wish to watch the English Premier League from the new rights holder.

Many fans are awaiting a major broadcaster to replace K+ for English Premier League broadcasts, ensuring a complete season. Compared to illegal streaming, official television broadcasts offer a superior experience in image quality and production, representing the most civilized way to watch football and respect the league's rights.

Vy Anh