New 'innovations' are being planned by Newcastle United and...

This season will mark the start of the Premier League’s historic £6.7 billion broadcasting agreement with Sky Sports

and TNT Sports.

The upcoming Premier League season will bring some new “innovations” to Sunderland and Newcastle United.

Sunderland ended their eight-year run out of the top flight through the Championship play-offs after finishing fourth

in their first season under new head coach Regis Le Bris. The Black Cats defeated Coventry City in a two-leg semi-

final and overcame a goal deficit to defeat Sheffield United in the championship game.

The Premier League’s landmark £6.7 billion broadcasting deal with Sky Sports and TNT Sports will begin this

season.

Sunderland and Newcastle United will see some fresh “innovations” in the next Premier League season.

After finishing fourth in their debut season under new head coach Regis Le Bris, Sunderland ended their eight-year

stay out of the top division through the Championship play-offs. The Black Cats overturned a goal deficit to upset

Sheffield United in the championship game after defeating Coventry City in a two-leg semifinal.

Last week’s announcement of the 2025–26 Premier League schedule confirmed that the season’s first derby will take

place at the Stadium of Light in mid-December, with the return match on Tyneside scheduled for March. It appears

very likely that either Sky Sports or TNT Sports would choose to show both games live on television. As a result, both

teams will have to deal with some new broadcasting regulations that will be implemented for the upcoming season.

The Daily Telegraph have reported the broadcasters are looking to introduce a number of ‘US-style innovations’ after

the league asked their 20 member clubs to allow increased access after they agreed a record £6.7 billion broadcasting

deal that begins this season.

Pitchside interviews with players who have been substituted during the game and have cooled down are the most

unexpected feature that will be added. Steadicams are expected to enter the field of play to get close to goal

celebrations, but they will only be allowed to stay ‘a handful of seconds’ before returning to the pitchside.

Nevertheless, the new inventions will also bring spectators closer to the action. Although the report indicates that

some managers “have been resistant” to such a move, broadcasters have also asked to be allowed access to changing

rooms.

“As enduring and esteemed partners, Sky Sports and TNT Sports are known for continuously providing top-notch

coverage and programming,” stated Premier League CEO Richard Masters. Recent seasons have seen record

attendances and viewers, and we are confident that their ongoing creativity will encourage more people to watch and

follow the Premier League.

“This process’s outcome highlights the Premier League’s strength and is a testament to our clubs, players, and

managers who continue to provide the most competitive football in the world in packed stadiums, as well as to

supporters who provide an unparalleled atmosphere each week.”

Sportupdates