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Spain competition watchdog queries football deals

Spain's Competition Commission opened proceedings against broadcasters and Primera Liga football clubs over the sale of TV rights.

The commission said that in its investigation it had found a series of pacts between Spanish broadcasters Sogecable and Mediapro, companies which have subsequently gone on to compete fiercely for the rights for Spanish football.

The filing also names regional channels, publicly-owned bank Caja Madrid and 38 clubs in the first and second division.

The commission said the pacts breached competition rules, preventing other broadcasters from obtaining the majority of Primera Liga Copa del Rey games until after the 2009-2010 season.

A commission spokeswoman said those found in breach of competition rules would receive a fine equivalent to the value of the contract, adding that its decisions could be appealed in Spain's High Court.