By Chris O'Brien
June 25 2005

The Football League are delighted to confirm a new 4-year television deal that will have huge financial benefits for all 72 clubs. SKY have won broadcasting rights to show 70 live Football League games per season, whilst ITV's highlights package will continue to be aired.

Cardiff City and the other 71 Football League Championship clubs have been boosted by the news of a new television deal that will aid the Bluebirds in their financial crisis. The deal confirms that fixtures across the three Football League divisions will be shown live on Sky television, whilst ITV retain their increasingly popular highlights package entitled 'The Championship'.

Sky have won the broadcasting rights to screen 70 Football League matches, 55 of which will be from England's second tier - The Football League Championship. All play-off games from all divisions will also be shown live, whilst Football League Cup and Associate Members Cup games are also set to hit satellite television for another season.

"This tremendous news caps what has been an enormously encouraging season for The Football League. Crowds have increased yet again, as have viewing figures and we are also delivering on the promise we made to increase our clubs' commercial revenues." said Football League chairman Brian Mawhinney.

 

"Sky Sports are a class act and this new agreement is recognition of the outstanding entertainment our clubs provide their viewers week-in, week-out throughout the season."
 

This deal has obvious financial benefits for City, with the contract expiring in 2009. Cardiff were live on Sky television twice last season, and will be hoping for more broadcasting time next term with every penny thrown into the coffers vital as debts spiral above £30million.

After the club-threatening days of ITV Digital, the Football League has seemingly settled down over the past 12 months. Fantastic news for all concerned.