Broadcasting and Sport

The broadcasting of sport is heavily regulated. Our main finding is that common trends, and differences, in the quality, quantity, and price of televised sport across Europe and USA cannot be adequately explained without reference to policy interventions by national and supranational government, and by competition and regulatory authorities. These interventions have a significant impact on the organization and governance of sports, as well as the structure of broadcasting markets and the conduct of broadcasting companies. Foreclosure of broadcasting markets through exclusive, long-term contracts, bundling and vertical integration, access of viewers to major sporting events, and collective selling stand out as the most significant policy issues. We conclude by noting a number of policy implications.