Soccer Leagues Filming in HDTV this year

[wjarrettc]

I realize that HDTV has not caught on as quickly in Europe as it has in other places like the US but I'm curious how many leagues around the world are routinely producing content in high definition for their own markets or for distribution to other markets.

I know MLS, La Liga, and UEFA Cup all have some HD content available. Also, the Euro 2004 tournament was available in HD.

BSkyB will launch their HDTV service in 2006 and I have to assume that EPL will be a major part of that launch. I'm curious though if EPL games in particular (or other leagues generally) will have HD content as early as next season for export to HD-centric markets like Japan and the US or if we're going to have to wait a few years until Europe really buys into HDTV until we can start seeing more HD soccer content.

I guess the J-League would be a likely candidate for HDTV broadcasts but I doubt there's much market for that here in the US.

Anybody have any knowledge or thoughts on how rapidly HDTV will be adopted by soccer leagues around the world?

[billf]

If you waited a few years to go head on into HD, not only would the equipment be cheaper, but there would be more content. :)

[Warren Van Orden]

The big question for me is whether Univision/Telefutura and/or ABC/ESPN will be carrying World Cup Germany in HD

[SnakeEyes]

ABC/ESPN will probably only carry the 06 World Cup in Germany if NHK is there, like NBC did with the Olympics.

[wjarrettc]

If you waited a few years to go head on into HD, not only would the equipment be cheaper, but there would be more content. :)

But where's the fun in that? I'm not complaining about lack of content or how much my set cost, just curious about what the future holds.

[billf]

I know, I'm just busting chops. From what I understand, the 2006 WC will be produced digitally in a widescreen format, so it should be out there in HD somewhere. I'd guess all US games and select others would be in HD on one of the Disney HD outlets.