How to Save Money on Sky Sports, TNT, and Other Sports Subscriptions

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For the dedicated UK sports fan, the cost of television subscriptions can be eye-watering. Between Sky Sports, TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport), and now various streaming services, watching all the live action can cost over £60-£70 a month. But you don't have to pay full price. With a few smart strategies, you can significantly reduce your bill.

The Art of the "Retention" Call

This is the most effective tactic. If you are an existing customer coming to the end of your contract, do not simply accept the renewal price.

Call to Cancel: A few weeks before your contract ends, call your provider and state that you wish to cancel because the price is too high. Be polite but firm.

Go to the "Retentions" Department: The first person you speak to may simply process your cancellation. You want to be transferred to the "retentions" or "customer loyalty" department. Their job is to keep you as a customer.

Negotiate: They will almost certainly offer you a significant discount to stay. This could be 50% off for 6 or 12 months, or a bundle of channels at a reduced price. Know what you're willing to pay and stick to your guns.

Now TV "Passes" and Skyscan

If you don't want a long-term contract, consider Now TV. They offer daily, weekly, and monthly "passes" for Sky Sports and TNT Sports via their streaming service.

The Strategy: Don't pay monthly. Buy passes only when you need them. For example, buy a day pass for a big fight or a Super Sunday, or a month pass during a busy period (e.g., the start of the Premier League season).

Look for Deals: Now TV regularly offers discounted passes. You can often find 6 or 12-month prepaid passes at a much lower price than the monthly rate. Skyscan.co.uk is a website that tracks these deals.

Sharing and Splitting the Cost

As with other streaming services, consider splitting the cost.

Friends and Family: If you have friends or family who are also fans, you could go in together on a subscription. Many services allow multiple simultaneous streams. You pay for the account, and they pay you their share.

Pub Viewing: For the biggest games, consider going to a local pub that shows the match. A couple of pints might still be cheaper than a monthly subscription, and you get the atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Subscription Savings

Set a calendar reminder to call and renegotiate your contract before it ends.

Never accept the first renewal price. Always push back.

Be aware of "bundles." Sometimes adding broadband or a phone line can make the TV package cheaper overall.

• Consider if you really need all the sports channels. Can you get by with just one?

Conclusion

Paying full price for sports TV is a choice, not a necessity. By being a savvy consumer—negotiating your contract, using flexible passes, and sharing costs—you can watch all the action you love for a fraction of the advertised price. Your wallet will thank you. When's the last time you called to haggle your bill?