A pub supervisor was found guilty of screening televised Sky Sports football matches without the required commercial viewing agreement from Sky Business.
Mr. Malcolm Rhead the Licensee of the Sneyd Arms in Stoke-on-Trent, West Midlands, was found guilty in his absence of two offenses and was ordered to pay total fines and costs of £5,535.70.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft, an anti-piracy organization, brought the criminal prosecution at North Staffordshire Justice Centre against the licensee, for showing Sky Sports to customers without having valid commercial viewing agreements in place. Business premises that show Sky broadcasts without a commercial viewing agreement risk similar action, or even civil legal action.
Why it matters
“Showing Sky Sports in a commercial venue without the correct agreement is illegal and unfair to the many pubs and clubs that pay legitimately,” said Nick Sumner, FACT Investigations Manager “This outcome demonstrates that licensees who attempt to avoid the proper subscription charges can face prosecution and financial penalties. FACT will continue to work with Sky Business to identify infringements and take action.”
Further reading
Licensee of the Sneyd Arms in Stoke-on-Trent, West Midlands fined £5,535 for illegally screening Sky Sports. Press release. August 20, 2026. Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT)
