It is known as the “force majeure” clause, and it is in virtually every sports broadcasting contract.
The specifics of each contract vary by sport and by network, but generally speaking they contain a provision that allows the network to recoup money if a great, unforeseen set of circumstances causes the cancellation of games.
Like, say, a lethal, highly contagious virus sweeping the world.
Up until about a few weeks ago, the force majeure clause was boilerplate language in contracts between TV networks and major sports leagues. Now, everyone in the sports media business is talking about it.
“It’s the term that is now flying around out there,” said Lee Burke, a sports and TV consultant who advises sports teams and regional sports networks on contracts. “Force majeure is something that is out of everybody’s hands, a natural disaster, a flood or tornado or hurricane, a pandemic. … It’s part of the discussions that are…
