Serie A Chief Attributes Italy’s Decline to Illegal Streaming

Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo recently highlighted the impact of illegal streaming on Italy’s soccer landscape, specifically pointing to the decline in TV revenue as a major contributor to the struggles faced by the Italian national team. With Italy failing to qualify for the last two World Cups and facing a potential miss for the upcoming tournament, De Siervo emphasized the detrimental effects of piracy on the country’s ability to nurture homegrown talent.

In efforts to combat online piracy, Italian authorities have ramped up actions against illegal streaming, acknowledging the significant financial losses incurred by broadcasters and sports leagues worldwide. The loss of approximately €300 million ($345.15m) in TV revenue last year has severely affected Serie A teams, with De Siervo noting the repercussions on investments in youth teams and the development of young players.

De Siervo underscored the importance of addressing the outdated infrastructure and facilities within Italian soccer, echoing the need for substantial changes to enhance revenue streams for clubs and the overall system. Without a shift in the current trajectory, Italy risks falling behind other European leagues in UEFA’s coefficient rankings, potentially trailing top leagues like the Premier League and La Liga.

The Serie A CEO’s remarks shed light on the urgent need to address TV piracy as a critical issue affecting not only the financial stability of Italian soccer but also its capacity to compete on the international stage. By tackling the challenges posed by illegal streaming and implementing reforms to boost revenue generation, Italy aims to revitalize its soccer landscape and reclaim its standing among Europe’s elite leagues.