Streaming Service Arms Race: Protection and Distribution of Live Sports Broadcasting in a Cord-Cutting Environment

This paper highlights the disparity in meeting consumer expectations for broadcasting sports content. The current shift to online streaming services creates accessibility and affordability challenges, leading to an increase in illegal streaming. The existing copyright laws in Canada and the U.S. have some limitations in enforcing the rights of sports media rights holders against primary or secondary infringement, and intermediaries face difficulties in removing infringing content. While injunctions and site-blocking orders are potential solutions, they may not completely combat online piracy. A possible solution is a centralized streaming service to address piracy while improving customer satisfaction. However, concerns about feasibility, revenue loss, and media imperialism exist. At a minimum a practical solution is necessary to meet consumer preferences, benefit society, enhance current legal remedies, and reduce digital piracy.