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FCC Chair Questions NFL’s Antitrust Shield Over Streaming Shift

The inquiry tests whether exclusive online deals still meet the 1961 Sports Broadcasting Act.. Carr

Overview

  • Carr, who spoke Sunday on Fox & Friends Weekend, said the FCC is reviewing thousands of public comments that favor keeping many games on free broadcast TV.
  • He questioned whether the NFL can keep its special antitrust exemption as more games move to paywalled streaming services.
  • He said Congress or other federal agencies could act if leagues keep shifting live games off broadcast channels.
  • Streaming bidders such as Amazon, Netflix, and YouTube have lifted rights fees, with fresh talks expected this year ahead of opt-outs after the 2029 season.
  • Fans are pushing back on paywalls, with a Fox News poll finding 72% want major events to stay free on broadcast TV.