By Jonathan Easton

beIN Sports will retain the global broadcast rights to Turkey’s Süper Lig following a dramatic bidding process.

The Qatar-based broadcaster will reportedly pay significantly less than the previous US$500 million deal it agreed in 2015. It will broadcast the matches domestically via its local subsidiary Digiturk, while it can show or sell the matches in international markets.

Chief executive of the BeIN Media Group and Digiturk, Yousef Al-Obaidly said: “We are pleased to extend our relationship with the TFF for a further two years as the official broadcaster of the Turkish Süper Lig and TFF 1. Lig, both in Turkey and many markets around the world. As the most significant and longest-standing investor in Turkish football, we will continue to deliver innovative and quality broadcasting, using the best-in-class technology and platforms, so fans of Turkish football have the best experience supporting their teams. We will also continue to help raise the profile and prominence of Turkish football all around the world as TFF’s trusted partner.”

TFF president, Mehmet Büyükekşi, said: “Digiturk has been our trusted partner for over two decades, investing enormously in our product and delivering unparalleled quality in broadcasting. There is not a more experienced media company in the sports business than BeIN Media Group, nor a bigger investor in Turkish football, and we’re pleased our partnership can continue until 2024.”

beIN’s renewal was no sure thing despite the long-standing relationship. The broadcaster was accused in early 2021 of manipulating replays sent to the video assistant referee (VAR) by Fenerbahce president Ali Koc.

The broadcaster subsequently turned down the opportunity to renew and let the rights go to auction.