A survey by broadbanddeals.co.uk has found that Manchester United fans are most likely to illegally stream football matches. In a study into illegal streaming and downloading, the company surveyed 4,372 adults aged 18 and over, all participants were initially asked “Have you ever knowingly downloaded or streamed content illegally through your phone, computer, television or other device?” to which more than two thirds (67%) admitted to doing so ‘on a regular basis’ (at least once a month or more) and a further 14% said that they did so ‘occasionally’.
When asked to clarify what they’d previously downloaded or streamed illegally; ‘TV shows’ (88%), 'Football matches' (60%), ‘Films’ (63%), ‘Music’ (53%) and ‘Games’ (36%) emerged as the top five answers given by relevant respondents.
Those who said they streamed football were asked to name the team they support. The top result was Manchester United (21%), followed by Arsenal (19%) and Chelsea (15%).
As an aside, the top result for TV shows is as follows:
1. Game Of Thrones – 26%
2. Breaking Bad – 17%
3. The Walking Dead – 14%
4. The Big Bang Theory – 8%
5. Grand Tour – 6%
While a sizeable portion of those surveyed admitted to streaming football illegally, it is going to be much more difficult for them to continue to do so.
The High Court has recently ruled in the Premier League's favour, and now Internet Service Providers must block the IP addresses of any site found to be illicitly streaming Premier League matches. The Order is in effect for the entire season ahead. It was also in effect for the final two months at the end of last season, and the League claim they blocked more than 5,000 IP addresses found to be streaming illegally in that time.
