As always…its not that straightforward.
The main case to focus upon is the 2011 decision of the CJEU – better known as the decoder case…read it here http://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf?docid=110361&doclang=EN
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In short the Prem cannot claim copyright in the matches themselves, as they cannot be classified as works So therefore it begs the question as to whether or not a goal is protectable? Even if it is, then can the user rely on the UK copyright exceptions notably news reporting. Well the goal is topical and news worthy and surely a goal from say Rooney today is news and therefore exempt?
So despite the understandable threats from the Prem and although they are short of a few bob a tweet of a goal via say Vine may not constitute copyright infringment after all.
Anyway back to the build up….
M
