Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000758/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Carolina Morace (The Left)
Italy has requested that the list of free-to-air sporting events of national interest be updated to include the finals and semi-finals of the Davis Cup, the Billie Jean King Cup and the United Cup when the Italian national team is competing, as well as the finals and semi-finals of the Grand Slam tournaments, the ATP and WTA Finals, the ATP Masters 1000 and 500 tournaments, the WTA 1000 and 500 tournaments, and the Italian Open where Italian athletes are involved. The Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy has sent the proposal to the Commission for approval.
The measure is designed to safeguard the public’s right of access to sporting events of national interest, in line with the principle of equal access to public interest content. The Commission has yet to come to a decision, however, and this is generating uncertainty as to the timeline and whether the measure has a future.
In light of the above:
- 1.Can the Commission indicate the status of Italy’s request and how long a decision is likely to take?
- 2.Can it elucidate any regulatory or procedural barriers that may be holding up approval?
- 3.Can it provide a clearer framework for recognising the right of EU citizens to access sporting events of national interest for free?
Submitted: 19.2.2025