Espanyol threaten strike action over media rights deal

Espanyol have gone a step further in putting pressure on the Spanish government regarding La Liga television rights. Club president Joan Collet spoke on RAC1 radio yesterday and said they could go on strike if a law to regulate the sale of media rights is not approved. "We’re prepared to stop playing if this does not go ahead in the next one, two or three weeks. In sporting matters, the ability of the current government to make themselves look foolish is incredible.” Collet raised his voice in the Assembly of Vigo regarding the matter and last Friday made a passionate speech alongside Sevilla at the headquarters of the LFP after 41 clubs (all except Athletic) signed a letter to drive forward the new regulations.

To date, only Pablo Comas, the president of Recreativo, has dared to speak publically about a possible strike. Collet has now joined the calls and has gone a step further: “The law has not been passed yet because there are some politicians who want it put on hold. This league can no longer be called the best in the world.” A statement from Javier Tebas via agency EFE read: “I am disappointed and upset with this failure. We are losing hundreds of millions of euros.”

The majority of presidents within the LFP consulted by AS support the move if no solution is found this month and they agreed on this message: “The previous model, in which two teams charged outrageous sums, impacted on those clubs who earned less.” Collet continued: “Here we continue with the shame of the two clubs that charge more than anyone in Europe.” Víctor Martín, of Numancia, and Suárez, of Valladolid, support him: “We would join a strike.” Overall, the other clubs are more restrained in their quotes. Gil Marín (Atlético): “The government should ensure the correct, fair and necessary steps.” Sepulchre (Elche): “We support the measures taken by the LFP.” Sabalza (Osasuna) and Veiga (Sporting): “We will go with the majority”.

Some are more skeptical, such as Domínguez (Ponferradina): “We don’t anticípate any events.” Others, such as Zaragoza, have distanced themselves from the strike threats. “We do not advócate any strike action.”

from Últimas noticias | Diario AS http://ift.tt/1F2IbXd

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