Verizon Fios customers in Pittsburgh will be without AT&T SportsNet until the two companies come to a new contract agreement.
Verizon announced this week that its contract with AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh expired on Sept. 30, and the two sides have yet to come to a new agreement. Verizon says that AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh is demanding "a significant increase" to their already high rate.
"At Fios TV, we want our customers to see the best content on channels they love," Verizon said in a statement. "When content deals expire, we have to negotiate with content providers to be able to continue to carry their channels. As we have been unable to reach a reasonable agreement with AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh, we will be temporarily unable to provide their programming after that date.
"AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh has demanded a significant increase to an already high rate so you can continue watching their channels. Additionally, AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh is unwilling to provide a guarantee to fair market rates with respect to other distributors, including the ones they own. Rest assured, we understand that you enjoy AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh content, and we are working hard to reach a deal that will allow you to keep enjoying the programming you love."
AT&T SportsNet is the broadcast partner of the Penguins and the Pirates. With the NHL season expected to begin in December or January, a lengthy contract dispute could impact Verizon customers' ability to watch the Penguins next season.
