Sky Sports Explains Decision Not to Show Anti-Premier League Protest Banner
Sky Sports made a deliberate choice not to broadcast an anti-Premier League protest banner during Manchester City’s match against Liverpool, as their focus was on the on-field action.
The banner, organized by Everton fan group The 1878s, displayed the message “Premier League = corrupt” and was flown over the Etihad Stadium in the second half of the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s goal in the 80th minute equalized Erling Haaland’s opener.
Some fans were curious as to why Sky did not show the banner during their live coverage. Additionally, the broadcaster also did not air a banner organized by Amnesty International that read “UAE: Free Ahmed Mansoor” during the first half.
According to sources, Sky Sports made the decision to prioritize coverage of the on-field action and therefore opted not to show the anti-Premier League banner. However, the plane flying over the Etihad was mentioned in Sky Sports’ match report on their app and website.
Everton supporters continued their protests against the Premier League following their club’s 10-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules. These protests took place before, during, and after their 3-0 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday.
Pink flyers resembling the Premier League’s branding with the word “corrupt” were distributed before kick-off, and fans raised them as the players entered the field and again in the tenth minute of the game.
The Premier League pre-match anthem was met with loud boos, and Everton supporters chanted “Premier League, corrupt as f**k” throughout the match. Around 50 fans also gathered outside the Premier League’s London headquarters on Friday evening.
(Image: Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)