Erik Van Looy Makes Urgent Appeal to Dazn Amid Kotsbeu Concerns

belgian football Fans Face Viewing Blackout As DAZN and Telecoms Remain at Odds

Brussels,Belgium – August 20,2025 – Prominent television personality Erik Van Looy voiced the growing frustration of Belgian football fans on Sunday evening as he struggled to enjoy a match between Antwerp and Charleroi. The issue? Inability to access a reliable broadcast due to an ongoing dispute between sports streaming service DAZN and major Belgian telecommunications companies.

The core of the problem centers around access to the Jupiler Pro League, Belgium’s top professional football league. Since last year, DAZN has held the exclusive broadcasting rights.However, viewing requires a subscription to the DAZN app, creating obstacles for fans without smart TVs or modern computers.

Telecom giants Telenet,Proximus,and Orange have all ceased offering DAZN channels, leaving countless supporters reliant on potentially unstable streams via laptops, smartphones, or smart tvs. Summaries are available on VRT and VTM, but these do not provide the experience of a live match.

The Sticking Points in Negotiations

The impasse stems from fundamental disagreements over the scope of the agreement. DAZN aims to provide a comprehensive sports package, encompassing not only Belgian football but also international leagues and combat sports. Telecom companies, though, are primarily interested in securing rights solely for the Jupiler Pro League to control costs.

Further complicating matters, DAZN is demanding prominent placement on television decoders and home screens, a request that Telenet and its competitors deem unacceptable. According to recent reports from Statista, streaming services accounted for approximately 34% of total television revenue in Europe in 2024, increasing the pressure on conventional broadcast models.

Here’s a fast breakdown of the situation:

Telecom Provider	DAZN Channel Status
Telenet	Removed
Proximus	Following Telenet’s led
Orange	Following Telenet’s lead

Did you know? The number of sports streaming subscribers in Europe is projected to reach 87.6 million by 2028, according to a Digital Television Revenue forecast report by Ampere Analysis.

A Glimmer of Hope?

Despite the current deadlock, negotiations between DAZN and the telecom operators have reportedly resumed in recent weeks. news outlets indicate the conversations have reached a “crucial phase”, though a swift resolution remains uncertain.The increasing public outcry, exemplified by van Looy’s vocal discontent, is adding to the pressure to find a solution.

For now, fans wishing to watch the Jupiler Pro League must subscribe to DAZN and stream matches via their app. The situation leaves traditional television viewers in a frustrating limbo.

The rise of Sports Streaming and its Impact

The current situation in Belgium reflects a broader trend in the sports broadcasting landscape. Streaming services are increasingly challenging traditional television models, offering greater flexibility and a wider range of content. However, this shift also creates accessibility issues for those without the necessary technology or internet connectivity.The debate over rights and distribution is playing out across Europe, with similar disputes emerging in other countries.

Pro Tip: If you’re considering a DAZN subscription, check your internet speed to ensure a smooth streaming experience.A minimum download speed of 5 Mbps is generally recommended for standard definition, while 25 Mbps is ideal for high definition.

Frequently Asked Questions about DAZN and Belgian Football

Will a solution be found to allow all Belgian football fans to enjoy the game? And what dose this situation signal about the future of sports broadcasting in the digital age?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How dose Erik van looy’s public appeal to DAZN potentially impact the platform’s public image and fighter relations?

The Growing Controversy Surrounding Maxim kotsbeu’s Fight Schedule

Belgian director Erik Van looy has publicly voiced his strong concerns regarding the handling of boxer Maxim Kotsbeu’s career by streaming service DAZN. The appeal, made via social media and reported by several boxing news outlets, centers around what Van Looy perceives as a deliberate stalling of Kotsbeu’s progression towards a title shot. This situation has ignited debate within the boxing community, raising questions about DAZN’s commitment to developing its boxing talent and fulfilling promotional promises. the core issue revolves around fight scheduling and perceived lack of opportunity for the rising Ukrainian star.

van Looy’s public Statement & Key Arguments

Van Looy, a known boxing enthusiast and supporter of Kotsbeu, didn’t mince words in his public statement.He alleges that DAZN is intentionally avoiding placing Kotsbeu in fights that would elevate his ranking and ultimately lead to a championship bout. His key arguments include:

lack of Competitive Fights: Kotsbeu has been offered, and accepted, fights that Van Looy deems insufficiently challenging, hindering his ability to prove his championship credentials.

Prolonged Negotiation Delays: Negotiations for more important fights have reportedly stalled repeatedly, with DAZN seemingly unwilling to finalize agreements.

Impact on Kotsbeu’s Momentum: The delays are disrupting Kotsbeu’s training schedule and potentially diminishing his competitive edge. This impacts not only his career but also his mental readiness.

Openness Concerns: Van Looy is calling for greater transparency from DAZN regarding thier plans for Kotsbeu’s future.

DAZN’s Response and the Broader Context of Boxing Promotions

DAZN has yet to issue a complete official response to Van Looy’s claims. Initial statements have been limited to acknowledging the situation and stating they are “committed to Maxim Kotsbeu’s career.” Though, this has done little to quell the growing criticism.

This situation highlights a recurring issue within modern boxing: the influence of streaming services on fight scheduling and fighter development. DAZN,like other platforms (ESPN+,PBC on Showtime),operates under a business model that prioritizes content creation and subscriber acquisition.This can sometimes conflict with the best interests of individual fighters.

The Streaming Wars: The competition between streaming services for boxing rights often leads to complex negotiations and delayed fight announcements.

Content vs.Competition: Platforms may prioritize building a library of content over consistently matching fighters against their most challenging opponents.

Fighter Control: The level of control fighters have over their careers within these promotional structures is frequently enough limited.

Kotsbeu’s Record and Potential Opponents

Maxim Kotsbeu (currently 17-0-0,16 kos) is a highly regarded prospect in the light heavyweight division. His extraordinary knockout ratio and aggressive fighting style have earned him a dedicated fanbase. Potential opponents who could significantly advance his career include:

1. Joshua Buatsi: A fellow rising star in the division,a fight with Buatsi would be a major step up in competition.
2. Callum Johnson: A seasoned veteran with a proven track record, Johnson represents a significant test of Kotsbeu’s resilience.
3. A rematch with [Previous Opponent]: Depending on the outcome and circumstances of a previous fight, a rematch could be a lucrative and compelling option.

The Implications for Boxing and DAZN’s Reputation

The controversy surrounding Kotsbeu’s situation has broader implications for the sport of boxing and DAZN’s reputation.

Erosion of trust: If fighters and fans perceive that DAZN is prioritizing profits over fighter development,it could erode trust in the platform.

impact on fighter Morale: The uncertainty surrounding Kotsbeu’s future could discourage other fighters from signing with DAZN.

Increased Scrutiny: This situation will likely lead to increased scrutiny of DAZN’s promotional practices and its commitment to