nuOct 20, 2026, 07:23

Videoland receives ACM approval to acquire Viaplay

The Dutch competition authority (ACM) has approved Videoland's acquisition of Viaplay Netherlands, concluding the deal will not harm consumers or market competition. Videoland will now control various sports broadcasting rights, including Formula 1, while existing contracts remain subject to future bidding cycles.

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has officially approved the acquisition of Viaplay by Videoland. Following a thorough investigation, the regulatory body concluded that the merger would not negatively impact consumers, the acquisition of sports broadcasting rights, or the market for advertising space. As a result of this approval, Videoland will take over Viaplay Netherlands' existing subscriber base and their portfolio of sports licenses.

This transition grants Videoland control over broadcast rights for several major sports events within the country, including Formula 1, Premier League football, professional darts, and hockey. These sports licenses remain temporary assets, meaning they will be put back on the market once the current contracts expire. For example, the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 are set to expire in 2029, at which point interested parties will have the opportunity to bid on them again. The acquisition marks a significant consolidation in the Dutch streaming landscape.

Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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