The Spanish competition authority, CNMC, has issued a report highlighting necessary improvements in the marketing conditions proposed by La Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional (LNFP) for audiovisual rights. This pertains to the rights for the first division of the National League Championship, starting from the 2027/28 season through to the 2031/32 season.

In its report (INF/CNMC/238/25), the CNMC emphasizes that La Liga must adhere to the powers granted under Royal Decree-Law 5/2015, which allows for the joint marketing of audiovisual rights. The authority has pointed out that La Liga should not claim ownership of rights that are not conferred to them by the decree.

Among the recommendations made by the CNMC, it is suggested that La Liga should limit the obligations imposed on the winning bidder to only those necessary for marketing, avoiding any disproportionate or unjustified burdens. Furthermore, the CNMC insists on ensuring a transparent and competitive procedure, particularly regarding the awarding process and the evaluation of technical-professional criteria.

Additionally, the CNMC warns against structuring options and lots in a way that could lead to the concentration of rights in a single bidder, which would contravene the stipulations of the Royal Decree-Law.

This report is part of the regulatory framework established by the Royal Decree-Law 5/2015, which mandates that marketers seek prior approval from the CNMC regarding their proposed marketing conditions for audiovisual content rights in professional football competitions.