Fears emerge that Donald Trump could jeopardize NFL's blockbuster deal with ESPN
Earlier this month, the NFL and ESPN agreed a blockbuster deal that will see the network broadcast seven more regular-season games, and have access to NFL Network and RedZone.
In return, it is reported that the NFL will receive equity in ESPN. The shock announcement, first reported by The Athletic, angered many football fans.
But now Front Office Sports reports that Trump could intervene in the deal, which is expected to require sign-off from the government.
There is reportedly 'growing concern' that the president could try to 'delay, or block' the billion-dollar agreement.
Trump has a history of involving himself in sports - particularly the NFL. Only recently, he has been a vocal critic of the new kickoff rules and recently threatened to disrupt the Commanders' new stadium plans if Washington didn't change their name back to the Redskins.
A decade ago, he tried and failed to buy the Buffalo Bills for $1billion. In 2017, meanwhile, he called on NFL owners to fire players who take a knee during the national anthem.
Colin Kaepernick sparked a nationwide debate when he protested against police brutality and racial injustice. Other players followed suit and they soon incurred the wrath of the White House.
'Wouldn't you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, "Get that son of a b**** off the field right now?" Out. He's fired. He's FIRED!' Trump said during a rally in Alabama.
A year later, the president canceled the traditional White House reception with the Super Bowl winners after it emerged that only a small number of Eagles players planned to attend.
Trump claimed Philadelphia disagreed 'with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country.'
The president has also had feuds with ESPN and its parent company Disney. 'ESPN is paying a really big price for its politics (and bad programming). People are dumping it in RECORD numbers. Apologize for untruth!' he said in 2017.
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