The Match

It is true that in the last 20 years fees to get TV rights for football events have risen to extraordinary peaks; and football programming is a major weapon in the war between competing TV companies. However, the "symbiotic" relationship that has developed between television and football in recent times is the result of a long period of tension. This book explores the relationship between English football authorities and the BBC Television service during this difficult preparatory stage. The focus is on two main areas of interest: the first is the historical evolution of negotiations, as well as programming and production of televised football;the second is the televising of the 1966 World Cup, a fundamental moment in the construction of televised football in England. The analysis may proof helpful for all students of History, Sports Studies, Media Studies and Cultural Studies, either in Britain or abroad. But the book may also appeal to all those readers, academic or not, interested in the history of the BBC, the FA and the Football League.