PRO TV has announced that it will file criminal complaints against those who illegally streamed the Europa League play-off match between LASK Linz and FCSB, which ended in a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Europa League Play-Off. The Romanian broadcaster held exclusive broadcasting rights for this match, having secured them through negotiations with the Austrian club.
PRO TV had acquired the broadcasting rights for the LASK vs. FCSB match and decided to stream the game exclusively on their platform, VOYO, as they did previously for the Sparta Prague vs. FCSB match, which also ended 1-1. In an effort to combat piracy, PRO TV issued a warning on the day of the match: “The company has decided to actively monitor all websites and social media accounts that illegally stream the match and will take all necessary legal measures to protect the rights it holds.”
Despite this warning, which was also broadcast during the live stream on VOYO, illegal streams of the match appeared on various websites and social media platforms.
“PRO TV SRL representatives have prepared and are submitting all necessary documents to the police to initiate criminal investigations, identify, and bring to justice those who illegally streamed the LASK Linz vs. FCSB match or contributed to the distribution of illegal streams,” the company stated.
Those responsible will face criminal charges and may also be required to pay “considerable financial compensation.” In such cases, the law stipulates penalties ranging from six months to three years of imprisonment, or fines.
PRO TV also emphasized the importance of choosing legal content sources:
“Watching illegal streams may seem harmless, but it harms the entire sports community. By opting for legal channels, we directly contribute to the development of the sport, support the performance of our favorite players, and ensure that our experience is of high quality.
It is therefore essential for supporters to be responsible and follow the rules of the game to support the progress and integrity of the sport. Their dedication to choosing legal sources to authentically enjoy the shared passion for sports is thus respected.”