Ofcom has published a consultation on how it proposes to define certain terms that are used in the listed events regime, as well as updates to the accompanying Code.

We have previously commented on changes to the listed events regime here. Under the Media Act 2024, the regime – which ensures the free broadcast coverage of certain major sporting or other events of ‘national interest’ as designated by the Secretary of State – is due to change. As the consultation explains, rather than only applying to linear television channels, the regime will now apply to any television or television-like programme service which can be used to show live coverage of listed events to audiences in the UK, including streaming services.

As part of its role in implementing the changes under the Media Act 2024, Ofcom is required to make regulations defining certain terms used in the regime. The consultation sets out its proposals in this regard, outlining how it intends to define “live coverage”, “adequate live coverage” of a multisport event such as the Olympics, and “adequate alternative coverage” of so-called Group B events.

The consultation also outlines Ofcom’s approach to drafting changes to its Code on listed and designated events, explaining that it is intended to be clearer than its previous iteration. In particular, it sets out in detail Ofcom’s proposed approach to deciding whether to give consent to a service provider who is otherwise restricted by the Media Act 2024 from showing live coverage of a listed event.

The consultation ends on a cautionary note about the future of the listed events regime, despite these attempts to bring it up to date for the streaming era. As Ofcom explains, current trends in the UK sports rights market (in particular the emergence of new competitors and streaming services) could have an impact “on the effectiveness of the listed events regime as it is currently structured. Greater competition among service providers could lead to rising prices for rights, and a reduced ability for Public Service Broadcasting providers to acquire them in their present form.” Ofcom commits itself to considering these trends as part of its Review of Public Service Media, which it aims to publish shortly.

The consultation is open until 8 August 2025, and can be read in full here.