Mediaset to encrypt channels in retrans battle with Sky

Italian broadcaster Mediaset is to encrypt its free-to-air channels Canale 5, Italia 1 and Rete 4 next month, having failed to strike a deal with pay TV operator Sky to pay for retransmission of the services.

Mediaset said that in the absence of a deal with Sky, it would encrypt the services, which will continue to be available via the country’s digital-terrestrial platform and via free satellite service TivùSat.

The move follows the recent battle between Mediaset’s pay TV unit Mediaset Premium and Sky over European football rights, and a decision by regulator ACGOM that Sky should pay public broadcaster Rai to retransmit its channels.