TV deal talks go right to the wire
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Monday November 16 2009
A deal must be made by tonight on the TV rights to Ireland's return leg against France in Paris -- or else Irish fans will face a broadcasting blackout.
There were reports that RTE, SKY and the French Football Federation (FFF) were nearing an agreement late last night -- but the clock is ticking.
It now looks as if RTE and SKY have joined forces to gain a deal, and it has emerged that the €600,000 offer that was rejected by the French was a joint offer. It is understood the FFF were holding out for closer to €1.5m
BBC and Eurosport are believed to be willing to pencil an offer should RTE and SKY fail to reach a deal.
Meanwhile, Sportfive, the agency which is conducting the negotiations on behalf of the FFF, have stated that no radio deal has been made either, which may mean that Irish fans will be cut off completely.
- Cormac Byrne
