Channel Nine could soon return to broadcasting the AFL if their current contract dispute with the NRL continues to frustrate the network, according toย The Age.ย
Foxtel joins the Nine Network in falling into a quarrel with the NRL, as an agreement for a reduced broadcasting fee is yet to be made.
Nine chief executive Hugh Marks has warmed to the idea of severing ties with the NRL in favour of the AFL in 2022, when both codes end their current broadcasting contracts.
The AFL had reportedly begun negotiations with current network partners Channel 7 and Fox Sports for a contract extension until 2024, meaning Nine's hopes of returning to Aussie Rules may face a delay.
The AFL is currently negotiating a new deal for 2020 that will suit the revised fixture for the current season.
Nine still remain a staple for AFL content throughout their 7-day guide, adding a second instalment ofย Footy Classified and continuing theย Sunday Footy Show.ย
The AFL currently attracts close to $418 million per season for its six-year, $2.56 billion deal.
The league is expected to cuts costs across the board due to the coronavirus pandemic, with a reduced salary cap and a smaller broadcasting contract likely to land as a result.
Marks spoke at a Macquarie Australia Conference 2020 on Tuesday, revealing Nine could renounce their partnership with the NRL as they continue to struggle through the negotiating process.
โโItโs not a given that NRL has to be part of our future,โโ Marks said. โโIt has to just pay its way like all of our content does, and if it doesnโt, well ... again, we are less reliant on that as a revenue source.โโ
