BT to launch sports channels on two Sky slots next year

BT has secured two EPG slots on the Sky platform in preparation for the launch of its sports channels next year. The broadcaster, which has secured rights to air FA Premier League football, international football and Aviva Premiership rugby packages, acquired the placeholders on the pay TV platform, which it has temporarily branded as Sailing 1 and Sailing 2.

Currently in the testing stages and not yet live, BT will rebrand and launch the channels next year, with viewers able to dial a phone number in order to access the content.

“Sailing 1 and 2 are placeholders for the new BT Sport channel, which will be launching next year,” a BT spokesman said. “For test purposes they will be showing sailing, treasure diving and kayaking content.”

BT is also reportedly considering launching a third sports channel to broadcast other content including on-demand programmes and one-off pay-per-view events.