ESPN files suit over Verizon packages

Sports channel ESPN has filed a law suit against US service provider Verizon Communications alleging breach of contract related to Verizon’s new slimmed-down pay TV packages of genre-specific channels.

The sports broadcaster is the latest US programmer to allege a breach of existing agreements with Verizon, following complaints made by Fox and NBCUniversal.

ESPN has alleged that Verizon has broken obligations under its licensing agreements with the broadcaster.

ESPN said that any new services must be in compliance with agreements it has struck with distributors.

Verizon has said that the company is reflecting consumer choice by offering slimmed-down packages and that it has fulfilled its obligations to content partners.