ESPN renews ACC contract until 2036
ESPN has agreed to exercise its option to continue airing Atlantic Coast Conference sporting events through 2036, as reported by the network on Thursday.
The network had until Feb. 1 to exercise the option on a 20-year contract that was signed in 2016. If they had not done so, the deal would have ended after the 2027 season.
While the ACC board of directors voted on Wednesday, ESPN reported that the conference is working on ways to create more high-profile games in football and men's basketball. These "value adds" are expected to contribute to a new revenue distribution model as the ACC works towards a settlement with Clemson and Florida State.
According to ESPN, a proposed plan includes a percentage of the ACC's television revenue being allocated to a "brand" fund, which would then be distributed to schools that generate the most revenue for the conference in football, men's basketball, and women's basketball each year.
If this plan is implemented, it is likely that Clemson and Florida State will drop their current lawsuits against the conference. These schools are currently suing the ACC in an attempt to withdraw from the conference's grant of rights.
Under the grant of rights, which is in effect until 2036, the media rights of Clemson and Florida State are tied to the conference itself.
ESPN reports that several athletic directors have suggested that this could also have an impact on Notre Dame, potentially leading to more games against top-tier teams within the conference.
