As per the BBC website, SKY have won 3 and there os now a second round for the other 3. Setanta would seem to be one of the favourites for some of the remaining packages with NTL/Virgin and ITV. Of course other than ITV the others need the SKy platform (I know NTL have able customers, but surelty they will need the Sky Platforma as well) so not much change for the end consumer other than if you want to watch all you will have to buy, at least, two packages i.e. Sky sports and one other.
I didnt expect anything different to be honest but maybe it will enable someone other than Sky to cut thier teeth and make the next tender a little bit more competitive.
Football rights hat-trick for Sky
"The European Commission wants UK viewers to have more choice
BSkyB has won three of six packages giving it the right to broadcast English Premier League football games.
The winners of the six different match packages will be able to show games for three years starting in 2007.
BSkyB currently has exclusive rights, but a deal between the Premier League and the EU means other broadcasters get access to live Premiership coverage.
The remaining TV rights will now go to a second round of bidding. Setanta, an Irish broadcaster, has said it may bid." www.bbc.co.uk
