The 3pm blackout, which has been in place since the 1960s, prevents top-flight matches in England from being broadcast on live domestic television between 2.45pm and 5.15pm on a Saturday. The blackout was first introduced to encourage fans to attend lower league matches and boost attendances. However, with the Premier League's growing international presence, the blackout's relevance is being questioned.
talkSPORT Football reports that Masters believes a decision on the blackout will be made in 18 months' time. This decision will involve the Premier League, the EFL, and the FA. The Premier League has 27% growth internationally in the current commercial term, and Masters is confident in the media rights sales model going forward.
The Premier League is also taking steps to increase its global reach. The league has launched its own streaming service, Premier League +, in Singapore. This service will show all 380 matches live and provide 24/7 coverage. The Premier League Studios in west London will provide a world-class production service for international broadcasters.
The Premier League's current TV rights cycle will run through to the end of the 2028/29 season. Any potential removal of the blackout would not be introduced until the start of the following campaign. The Premier League will be able to announce revenue from 2028-2029 onwards within 12 months.
The next step for the Premier League will be to review the 3pm blackout decision in 18 months' time.