National League announces long-term broadcasting deal with DAZN

The National League has announced a new, long-term, broadcasting partnership with DAZN which will showcase the competition to more than 200 countries globally.

The seven-year deal – which begins in August – will end the league's partnership with BT Sport/TNT Sport.

The new arrangement with the British company will include both broadcast and streaming rights across the DAZN network, bringing the competition to a whole new audience which it is hoped will benefit the 72 member clubs – which include Maidenhead United and Slough Town.

The deal with DAZN will run until 2031 and will enable National League matches to be accessed across all platforms including desktop, smart TVs, IOS, Android, SKY Q, Virgin Media, Apple.tv, Amazon Firestick and even games consoles.

The National League’s general manager, Mark Ives, said: "We are incredibly excited about this groundbreaking long-term joint venture with DAZN, one of the biggest players in sports broadcasting and the deal demonstrates the continuing growth and reach of the National League.

"The global exposure DAZN will bring the League and our clubs cannot be overstated. DAZN will be using their vast expertise in sports broadcasting and streaming to allow fans in both the UK and internationally to access live matches across all connected devices like never before.

"We look forward to working very closely with them to enhances the viewing experience for all fans that can’t be at the stadium, which we believe is to the full benefit of our clubs and their supporters.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank TNT Sports for the wonderful coverage and support they have provided.”

Becky Ives, who has presented TNT Sport's coverage of the league in recent seasons, said: “Everything has a place in time. No job is ever truly yours. You just get to look after it for a bit and give it your best with the time you have. I'll still follow each week, be supporting the brilliant people that work and play for the league and be its biggest fan. So long National League.”