"Outrageous" and "Outrageous"

When asked about the fact that Swisscom had secured a major advantage over its competitors with the rights to broadcast soccer and ice hockey, Tveter was clear. He said it was "outrageous" what was happening in Switzerland with the sports rights - which was why the Competition Commission had been called in. It was "outrageous" that Swisscom, as the dominant provider in the telecommunications market, could secure exclusivity over sports leagues. The consumer's right to have access to sports broadcasts is fundamental, he said. Even in Germany and England, where Sky Sports holds the rights, sports broadcasts are offered to all competitors at reasonable prices. UPC Cablecom had received a corresponding offer from Swisscom subsidiary Teleclub - but "at unacceptable conditions", which in the end had to be borne by UPC Cablecom customers. Since then, Teleclub has rejected all further negotiations.

Through its Teleclub subsidiary, Swisscom offers Swisscom TV customers all Raiffeisen Super League and National League A matches, as well as individual lower league matches, live and exclusively on demand from CHF 3.50. The service is also available to cable customers. Cable customers can only subscribe to Teleclub's complete packages. In order to enjoy the sports broadcasts, the basic Teleclub package (39.90 francs) and the additional "Sport" package (9.90 francs per month) must be subscribed to. (hae/SoZ)

Image: UPC Cablecom