Premier League Wins Extension on Court Order Blocking Illegal Streaming of Football Matches

A court has extended an order requiring internet service providers to block illegal streaming of English Premier League football matches for two more seasons. The order applies to four Irish ISPs and was first made in 2019 following applications from the Football Association Premier League. The order aims to disrupt illegal streaming and protect the league's intellectual property rights.

A court in Ireland has extended an order requiring internet service providers (ISPs) to block illegal streaming of English Premier League football matches for two more seasons. The order was initially implemented in 2019 following applications from the Football Association Premier League (FAPL) Ltd. [1]

The extended order, which applies to Eircom trading as eir, Virgin Media Ireland, Sky Ireland/Sky Subscriber Services, and Vodafone, aims to disrupt illegal streaming and protect the league's intellectual property rights. The decision was made in the Commercial Court on Monday by Mr. Justice Mark Sanfey, who agreed to an application from the FAPL to extend the order for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 football seasons. [1]

The court heard evidence from Sky Ireland, which supported the application, while the other three ISPs were neutral. Johnathan Newman SC, for the FAPL, presented evidence showing that the proportion of streams disrupted is very significant, and the volume of material blocked is extremely high. Mr. Justice Mark Sanfey was satisfied that the order was reasonable and proportionate. [1]

This extension follows a broader trend in the sports industry to combat illegal streaming. The Premier League has been actively working with technology companies to enhance fan experiences and protect its intellectual property. Adobe and the Premier League recently announced a multi-year partnership to bring AI-powered personalised digital experiences to fans around the world. [3]

The partnership aims to provide new opportunities for fans to express their creativity and engage with their favourite clubs and players. Adobe's content creation app, Adobe Express, and its generative AI, Firefly, will be integrated into the Premier League's new website and app for the 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League season. [3]

The extension of the order to block illegal streaming is a significant step in protecting the financial interests of the Premier League and its stakeholders. As the league continues to innovate and adapt to the digital age, such measures are crucial for maintaining its revenue streams and ensuring the sustainability of the sport. [1]

References:
[1] https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/07/14/order-blocking-illegal-streaming-of-premiership-football-is-extended-by-court/
[3] https://www.enterprisetimes.co.uk/2025/07/10/adobe-and-premier-league-partners-to-enhance-football-fan-experience/