Tensions between the Premier League and the English Football League (EFL) are escalating as top-flight clubs push for a greater share of the revenue from football’s burgeoning data rights. The move challenges the current arrangement, which sees the Premier League and EFL equally splitting around £35m annually from the collective sale of these rights.
The data rights deal, managed by Football DataCo—a joint venture between the leagues—has become increasingly valuable. Growth has been fuelled by rising demand from betting firms and broadcasters for live data, such as expected goals and shots on target. Genius Sports, the data provider, recently signed a four-year agreement to manage these services, covering over 4,000 games per season.
Premier League clubs argue their influence has driven much of this growth, contending they deserve a larger share. However, any redistribution requires agreement from both the EFL and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), which receives a far smaller portion of the revenues.
Sources within the Premier League, as quoted by The Guardian, suggest stakeholders are satisfied with the deal’s current performance. Yet, the timing of this debate exacerbates existing friction, including disagreements over financial regulation, parachute payments, and unresolved talks on the proposed “New Deal for Football.”
Complicating matters further, the Premier League is grappling with its internal challenges, including soaring legal costs related to club financial compliance cases. Amid these strains, the push for greater data revenue could be seen as a strategic financial safeguard.
With data rights set to play a pivotal role in the future financial structure of football, the outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the sport’s governance and distribution of resources.
