End the Blackout of 3pm Football Kick-offs in the UK
End the Blackout of 3pm Football Kick-offs in the UK
The Issue
In the UK, there's a long-standing tradition, known as a "blackout" rule that prevents the broadcast of football matches kicking off between 2:45pm and 5:15pm on Saturdays. This rule, set initially by the Football League in the 1960s, aims to protect lower league clubs and live attendance. However, in today's digital age, the reality of fan viewership has significantly evolved, making this rule obsolete and frustrating for many. It limits access to our favourite teams and games, particularly for those who are unable to attend matches in person, such as many elderly and disabled fans. With over 5 million people in the UK having a disability (source: Office for National Statistics, UK), it is clear how severely this issue impacts the inclusivity of sport. Therefore, we are calling on the UK Government and relevant football associations to reconsider this outdated rule. No fan should be blocked from experiencing the sport they love. Please sign the petition to end the 3pm blackout of football in the UK.
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The Issue
In the UK, there's a long-standing tradition, known as a "blackout" rule that prevents the broadcast of football matches kicking off between 2:45pm and 5:15pm on Saturdays. This rule, set initially by the Football League in the 1960s, aims to protect lower league clubs and live attendance. However, in today's digital age, the reality of fan viewership has significantly evolved, making this rule obsolete and frustrating for many. It limits access to our favourite teams and games, particularly for those who are unable to attend matches in person, such as many elderly and disabled fans. With over 5 million people in the UK having a disability (source: Office for National Statistics, UK), it is clear how severely this issue impacts the inclusivity of sport. Therefore, we are calling on the UK Government and relevant football associations to reconsider this outdated rule. No fan should be blocked from experiencing the sport they love. Please sign the petition to end the 3pm blackout of football in the UK.
19
Petition created on 29 March 2025