Facebook Said to Back Off Bid to Stream NFL Thursday Games
- Social media company turned off by commercials, London games
- League is still shopping digital rights to other bidders
Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Seattle Seahawks runs the ball against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on Feb. 1, 2015 in Glendale, Ariz.
Photographer: Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesLess than a month after Facebook Inc. confirmed its interest in live-streaming the National Football League next season, the social media giant has withdrawn from the bidding for Thursday games, according to a person with knowledge of the discussions.
While a deal to stream the most-watched American sport on the most-popular social network has obvious appeal, Facebook likes its live videos to be commercial-free and balked at the NFL’s traditional advertising model, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private. Early morning London games that come with the deal were also a turn-off, according to the person.