Today’s release of a survey reveals a startling statistic: as many as five million individuals in the UK may have engaged in illegal access to football matches at least once in their lives. While this headline number is significant, it’s the widespread confusion among consumers that rings alarm bells for organizations like the Premier League.
Soccer, or football as it’s known in the UK, commands a massive following, drawing millions of spectators each week, both through legal and illicit channels.
For organizations like the Premier League, combating piracy has become a top priority, with aggressive enforcement efforts underway. However, a recent survey commissioned by betting tips service OLBG and conducted by market research company OnePoll highlights the need for more education on the matter.
The survey of 1,000 football fans reveals some intriguing insights into their viewing habits. While a significant portion attend live games or watch matches at pubs, the largest audience, at 46.9%, opts to watch matches at home, presenting ample opportunities for piracy.
According to the survey, 22.4% of respondents admit to using unofficial streams at some point, extrapolated to over five million UK football fans. However, it’s crucial to note that this figure encompasses lifetime usage, potentially inflating the extent of current piracy.
Even more concerning is the lack of awareness among fans regarding the legality of streaming sources. Roughly 40% believe accessing streams from unofficial providers is acceptable, posing a significant challenge for leagues and broadcasters.
The confusion extends to other platforms as well, with nearly half of respondents unaware that “Kodi-style” devices offer content illegally. Social media streams and password sharing also present grey areas in terms of legality, further complicating the landscape.
While the issue of piracy remains prevalent, particularly among those who never pay for content, the survey underscores the need for clearer education on the legality of streaming sources. Without greater awareness, efforts to combat piracy may fall short in the long run.