COMPETITION LAW AND ITS APPLICATION IN ALBANIAN SPORTS BROADCASTING

Broadcasting agreements for sports events play a pivotal role in the contemporary sports landscape, shaping the accessibility and commercialization of sports content. The convergence of sports and media has created a lucrative industry, with broadcasting agreements serving as the backbone of revenue generation for sports organizations. This intricate nexus has triggered a myriad of legal and regulatory challenges, necessitating a comprehensive examination to ensure adherence to competition law. The research problem at hand centers on scrutinizing the compliance of broadcasting agreements for sports events with competition law, emphasizing the need for legal frameworks that foster fair competition. Compliance with competition law remains a central concern, given the potential for anticompetitive practices within the sports broadcasting sector. The landscape of sports events has undergone a transformative shift, with broadcasting agreements playing a pivotal role in shaping the industry's dynamics. The significance of these agreements extends beyond mere television broadcasts, encompassing a complex web of economic, cultural, and legal aspects. As sports events gain unprecedented global viewership, the impact of broadcasting agreements on various stakeholders becomes increasingly profound. This study explores the multifaceted importance of broadcasting agreements, delving into economic considerations, cultural influence, legal frameworks, and the evolving nature of sports consumption. The effective implementation of competition law faces challenges, particularly in defining and assessing market power in the dynamic environments and unique context of sports broadcasting. The tension between promoting fair competition and accommodating the distinctive nature of the sports industry remains a delicate balancing act. Examining the legal frameworks governing sports broadcasting agreements in Albania and Europe reveals the diverse approaches taken to ensure compliance with competition law.