Millions of Europeans Watch Sports Illegally and Buy Counterfeit Gear: Manufacturers Lose €850 Million Annually
Europe is buzzing with sports excitement, but a drama of illegal activities unfolds behind the scenes. Many fans are watching broadcasts illegally and buying counterfeit sports gear, causing huge losses for manufacturers.
Sports Enthusiasts and Illegal Streaming
Imagine every eighth EU resident watching their favourite games illegally. Among young people aged 15-24, it’s even one in four. And in the Czech Republic? 10% of the population and 23% of young people access illegal websites to watch sports broadcasts.
Illegal streaming is a severe problem. Estimates suggest that sports broadcast piracy in the EU generates illegal revenues of €1 billion annually.
Counterfeit Sports Equipment – A Hidden Threat
Manufacturers of sports equipment in the EU lose €850 million annually due to counterfeit products. In the Czech Republic, 5 % of young people aged 15-24 knowingly bought counterfeit sports gear.
Counterfeit products are not just about money – they often fail to meet safety standards and can be dangerous for users. In 2023, European police authorities seized eight million counterfeit luxury and sports goods worth €120 million.
A Call to Play Fair
With major sporting events like UEFA EURO 2024, the Tour de France and the Olympic Games in Paris coming up, the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has launched the "Play Fair" campaign. It urges fans to watch official broadcasts and buy authorized merchandise.
“As we enjoy the excitement of the matches this summer, it’s important to play fair,” says EUIPO Executive Director João Negrão. “Intellectual property rights protect our fan experiences, support athletes, and inspire future champions of Europe and the world.”
Fighting Against Illegal Activities
European countries are fighting against piracy with regulations and technologies to block illegal internet services. The European Commission recommends raising consumer awareness and stricter law enforcement.
The "Play Fair" campaign is another step in combating illegal practices. It appeals to fans to support their favourite sports through legal means. Let’s be responsible fans and play fair!
Help protect the sport you love by watching official broadcasts and buying licensed products. By doing so, you support athletes and ensure the sports world thrives for future generations.
Photo 1 (Olympic Rings): Ibex73, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Graph 1: UPV <Úřad průmyslového vlastnictví (gov.cz)>