As matters stand, if the Premier League is cancelled altogether, like similar leagues in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, then the two companies are entitled to a refund of 762 million, which the 20 clubs will have to fund between them. And, even if they are able to find a way to complete the season, the pair will still be entitled to a substantial refund.
This is because, with no Force Majeure clause in their contract with them which covers an eventuality such as the coronavirus outbreak, the Premier League will be forced to compensate the pair for supplying an inferior product games played without crowds, and at times that differ from those originally scheduled. The broadcasters also want recompense for three months without live action.
Amongst their demands are for a camera to be placed in the dressing rooms of the two teams, as well as in the tunnel area, live audio feed from the technical areas during the game, and half-time interviews with managers and players from both teams.
What has not been made clear though is how broadcasters intend to deal with the issue of what is euphemistically described as industrial language. Some footballers and coaches frequently swear and use terms the media companies would not want their viewers, especially children to hear, especially for those games broadcast before the watershed.
Another sticking point with the satellite companies could be the wish by the UK government that, when the Premier League does resume, a number of games should be free-to-air on terrestrial television. The authorities want this in an effort to dissuade fans from travelling to grounds anyway; even if they know that they will not be allowed in, thereby infringing the guidelines on social distancing.
However, this would infringe the exclusivity of the satellite broadcast rights, and, potentially increase their demands for compensation.