‘Brilliant news’ – SPFL announce contract extension that will directly impact Celtic fans

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The Scottish League Cup has undergone a plethora of sponsorship changes over the years.

Last year, after two seasons as the Viaplay Cup, the competition was once again sponsored by Irish TV broadcaster and online streaming platform Premier Sports.

Celtic are the current holders of the Premier Sports Cup after beating Rangers in the final on penalties following a thrilling 3-3 draw at Hampden Park after extra-time.

The initial Premier Sports contract was set to expire in the summer of 2027, but now the SPFL have confirmed a contract extension.

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SPFL confirm Premier Sports Cup contract extension

On Wednesday morning, SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster confirmed that Premier Sports will continue its coverage and sponsorship of the League Cup until 2031.

It means plenty of Celtic games will be broadcast live on the platform for a further four years. It should be noted this contract is separate to the Premier Sports deal that broadcasts live Scottish Premiership fixtures.

Via the SPFL’s official website, Doncaster said: “We place great value on our long-standing partnership with Premier Sports and it’s brilliant news that we’ve agreed a major extension for the Premier Sports Cup for a further four years.

“Premier Sports continue to be a fantastic supporter of our game, with their high-quality coverage of SPFL matches, and their ongoing commitment is a real boost for Scottish football.

“We look forward to working together to build on the success of the Premier Sports Cup in the seasons ahead.”

When do Celtic play in the Premier Sports Cup again?

The Premier Sports Cup group stage matches kick-off this Friday night as Edinburgh City take on Partick Thistle at Meadowbank Stadium.

Celtic are not involved in the group stage action because teams who qualify for European football advance straight to the knockout phase.

The Hoops will watch with interest to see who qualifies out of the groups and secures a place in the last 16 draw, the stage at which Celtic will enter first.

Celtic will next play in the Premier Sports Cup on either August 16 or 17. The date for the second round draw is yet to be confirmed.