For legions of British NFL fans, the ad-free sanctuary of the RedZone channel, with its iconic host Scott Hanson, has been the ultimate way to experience the Sunday gridiron action. That hallowed viewing experience is now set for a seismic shift.
From the 2025 season onwards, the NFL's beloved 'whip-around' channel will feature commercial breaks for the first time in its history, signalling the end of an era for pure, uninterrupted football.
Why the Change? A New Broadcasting Landscape
The groundbreaking move is a direct result of the NFL's latest media rights agreements. As part of the new cycle starting in 2025, the broadcasting rights for NFL RedZone have been acquired by NBCUniversal's streaming service, Peacock, and the Disney-owned ESPN.
This shift away from its previous home on NFL Network and the direct-to-consumer service, NFL+, fundamentally alters the channel's business model, necessitating the introduction of advertising inventory.
What This Means for Viewers
The core 'whip-around' format—jumping from game to game to show every touchdown and crucial moment—will remain intact. However, viewers should prepare for scheduled ad pods to be inserted during natural breaks in the action.
This change will affect fans regardless of how they access the channel, whether through traditional pay-TV providers in the UK or via the new streaming platforms.
Fan Reaction: A Wave of Disappointment
The announcement has been met with widespread dismay from the NFL community. Fans on social media have expressed profound disappointment, with many citing the ad-free nature of RedZone as its defining, superior feature compared to other sports coverage.
For over 15 years, Scott Hanson's marathon seven-hour presentation without a single commercial break has been a testament to the channel's unique commitment to its audience. The 2025 season will undoubtedly mark a new, and for many, an unwelcome chapter.
