Disney and DirecTV Race to Finalize Deal Before NFL Season Kickoff

Negotiations intensify as potential blackout looms for millions of subscribers with key sports events at stake.

The current distribution agreement between Disney and DirecTV expires on Sunday, with talks ongoing.
DirecTV seeks smaller, more affordable channel packages, while Disney emphasizes the value of bundled offerings.
Potential blackout could impact access to ESPN and ABC during high-profile sports events, including college football and NFL games.
Both parties blame each other for the stalemate, citing differing views on bundling and pricing strategies.
Past disputes, such as the Disney-Charter standoff, highlight the stakes involved in these negotiations.