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Tuesday 7th January 2020

Celtic Rangers cinch Premiership

Press release: Record TV audience

The Ladbrokes Premiership match on Sunday 29 December between Celtic and Rangers achieved Sky Sports’ highest-ever audience for a live SPFL match...

Over 1.4m supporters tuned into the top of the table clash, a new record for a Scottish football league match in the SPFL era. This figure includes those watching via TV, Sky Go and other subscription services broadcasting Sky Sports.  

The increase in viewing numbers was welcomed by both the SPFL and Sky Sports ahead of Sky Sports becoming the exclusive live partner for SPFL Premiership matches in a five-season agreement starting from season 2020/21.

Demonstrating the continuing worldwide interest in the renowned fixture, the match was made available for live broadcast and highlights shown in over 120 countries.

Neil Doncaster, SPFL Chief Executive, said: “The record viewing figures for the December Celtic vs Rangers match is fantastic news and highlights the increasing interest in Scottish football, not only within Scotland but across the whole of the UK and around the globe.

“The SPFL continues to deliver the passion, drama and excitement that Scottish football has long been renowned for. We look forward to building upon this as we extend our new, long-term agreement with Sky Sports starting from season 2020/21.”

Gary Hughes, Head of Football at Sky Sports, added: “Sky Sports is delighted that over 1.4m viewers watched one of world football’s greatest rivalries between Celtic and Rangers. Viewing of the SPFL has risen 8% on last season, and 47% on the 2017/18 campaign, showing the appetite our customers have for Scottish football.

“We very much look forward to bringing viewers all the best matches, including every Old Firm game, as the season reaches its climax. All this ahead of Sky Sports becoming the exclusive home of the SPFL from the 2020/21 season.”

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