"We are always open to continued discussions but unfortunately have no dialogue with Tele2 ahead of the Sweden–Poland match. We understand that Tele2's customers are frustrated and of course hope that as many as possible will be able to watch the Viaplay Sport channel," writes Viaplay's press manager Susanne Nylén in an email to the newspaper.
This summer, Viaplay launched the new linear TV channel Viaplay Sport. However, telecom operator Tele2 has chosen not to include the pay channel in its basic offering, which means that hundreds of thousands of customers cannot watch the channel on TV without paying extra. This evening, many customers will be unable to watch the Swedish national football team's match against Poland in Solna, which will determine which country will qualify for this summer's World Cup finals in North America.
"The price tag we received from Viaplay would have required a price increase for our customers. We understand that many want to see the match this evening, but few would have appreciated the price increase, especially people who are not interested in sports," writes Tele2's communications manager Mariana Prieto Abarca in an email to Expressen.
The match starts at 8:45 PM local time in Sweden at a packed Strawberry Arena in Solna.
