FreeSports, the free-to-air channel that broadcasts numerous sporting events, is being removed from Freeview at the end of June, leaving the free platform without a standalone full-time sports channel.
The change is part of a major Freeview shakeup that’s coming on June 29 and June 30, in which several channels will change names and numbers, while some – like Freesports – will be removed completely.
FreeSports, which launched back in 2017, covers a variety of sports categories, from selected football matches, to NASCAR motorsports events, ice hockey, rugby, cricket and more.
In the past, FreeSports was also free-to-watch on Freesat, but it was removed from there as well, two years ago, in another blow for sports fans.
At this point, ironically, there aren’t many ways left to watch FreeSports for free, especially on a big-screen TV (see below for a few options).
Why Is FreeSports Leaving Freeview?
On June 30, a Freeview Multiplex – known as COM7 – is being shut down, with EE taking over its frequency for 5G mobile signals (following an Ofcom auction).
Once COM7 shuts down, channels like FreeSports that are currently using it will have to either find a spot on one of the other (more expensive) multiplexes, or shut down – which is what’s happening to FreeSports and eight other channels (see the full list of upcoming Freeview changes).
As part of the big changes, FreeSport – which is currently on Freeview Channel 65, will be replaced by That’s TV (formerly That’s TV Gold), which will switch from Channel 91 to Channel 65.
How Can I Still Watch Freesports?
FreeSports is still available for free on two other platforms:
The FreeSports Player Website: The official website lets you watch some live and on-demand events for free, while others are only available if you pay an additional fee.
The FreeSports Player App: Available for both Android and iOS, you must first register (for free) on the website, and will then be able to stream the free events on your smartphone. The content can also then be cast to your TV using Google’s Chromecast.
FreeSports is also available on Sky and Virgin Media – but these options require a paid subscription to the pay-TV company.
We approached FreeSports for comment, and will update this article accordingly.
It’s also carried in Samsung TV streaming service.