Cascais, Portugal – Reinaldo Teixeira, president of the Portuguese Professional Football League (LPFP), has reaffirmed the league’s commitment to centralizing audiovisual rights by the 2028/29 season, despite recent challenges including Benfica’s suspension from the Liga Centralização process. Teixeira addressed the matter on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, while speaking at a conference in Cascais, emphasizing that ongoing dialogue with all clubs, including Benfica, remains a priority.
The move towards centralized TV rights has been a significant topic in Portuguese football, aiming to create a more equitable distribution of revenue among clubs. This centralization is intended to modernize the financial structure of the league and enhance its competitiveness on the European stage. Teixeira’s assurances arrive at a crucial time, as questions have arisen following Benfica’s decision to step back from the Liga Centralização, the entity tasked with implementing the process.
“At the time, Benfica left Liga Centralização – that was a decision they made – but we have always maintained communication and coordination with Benfica, as well as with the other sports companies,” Teixeira stated, according to reports. This indicates the league is working to navigate the complexities of securing agreement from all stakeholders, even in the face of dissenting opinions.
The LPFP president also highlighted the positive interaction with the Autoridade da Concorrência (AdC), Portugal’s Competition Authority, noting a “significant and very efficient interaction.” This collaboration is essential to ensure the centralization process adheres to competition laws and promotes a fair market for broadcasting rights. The AdC’s involvement signals a commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance.
Beyond the specifics of TV rights, Teixeira touched upon broader issues facing Portuguese football. He criticized growing tensions between larger clubs and recent incidents of violence directed towards referees, calling for a renewed focus on improving the quality of play and the overall spectacle. These concerns reflect a desire to address issues that threaten the integrity and appeal of the league.
The failure to approve a UEFA fund distribution mechanism for Second League clubs was also acknowledged as a challenge. Teixeira emphasized the need to attract new sponsorships, reduce costs, and increase revenue across the entire professional football landscape. This underscores the financial pressures faced by clubs at all levels of the Portuguese system and the importance of finding sustainable revenue streams.
On a more positive note, Teixeira praised the performance of Portuguese clubs – Sporting CP, FC Porto, and SC Braga – in European competitions, acknowledging their success in reaching the quarter-finals. He credited their achievements to the quality of work being done by their respective sports organizations. This continental success serves as a source of national pride and demonstrates the growing competitiveness of Portuguese football.
The league’s commitment to the 2028/29 timeline for centralization is particularly noteworthy. It provides a clear deadline for clubs and broadcasters to prepare for the new system. The LPFP has promised to soon reveal the revenue distribution model, a key element that will determine how the benefits of centralization are shared among the clubs. This announcement is eagerly anticipated by clubs across the league, as it will significantly impact their financial planning.
While Benfica’s departure from Liga Centralização initially raised concerns, Teixeira’s statements suggest that the league is confident in its ability to move forward without disruption. Maintaining open communication with Benfica, despite their decision to suspend their participation in the centralizing entity, is seen as crucial to ensuring a smooth transition. The league’s ability to navigate this situation will be a key test of its leadership and its commitment to a collaborative approach.
The centralization of audiovisual rights represents a significant shift in the Portuguese football landscape. It’s a move designed to address long-standing financial imbalances and create a more sustainable future for the league. The success of this initiative will depend on the continued cooperation of all stakeholders and the LPFP’s ability to deliver on its promises.
Looking ahead, the LPFP will be focused on finalizing the revenue distribution model and securing the necessary agreements with broadcasters. The next key checkpoint will be the official presentation of the distribution plan, which is expected in the coming weeks. Fans and stakeholders will be closely watching to see how the benefits of centralization will be allocated and how it will impact the future of Portuguese football.
What are your thoughts on the centralization of TV rights in Portugal? Share your opinions in the comments below.
