A Barcelona commercial court has granted Telefónica Audiovisual Digital authorization to expand dynamic IP blocking to include tennis, golf, and various entertainment titles. This new judicial resolution, obtained on March 23, allows the telecommunications giant to target websites and IP addresses broadcasting unauthorized content across a broader range of media.
The expansion marks a significant shift from previous measures that focused primarily on LaLiga football matches. While connectivity issues in Spain have been reported since February 2025 during major football fixtures, the new mandate covers live broadcasts of tennis and golf, as well as movies and series.
Collateral damage to web connectivity
The blocking mechanism works by targeting specific IP addresses detected distributing unauthorized content. Because a single IP address can host thousands of unrelated websites, the process often renders legitimate services inaccessible. This phenomenon has been noted by the Spanish government, which acknowledged that the system orchestrated by LaLiga president Javier Tebas interferes with access to lawful sites.
According to reports from ElEconomista, the new authorization extends to domains, URLs, and IP addresses. This includes blocking addresses belonging to Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) like Cloudflare, which can disrupt a wide array of unrelated web traffic.
Unlike previous LaLiga-focused blocks that targeted major carriers like Vodafone, Digi, and MásOrange, this new order reaches smaller and regional internet service providers. Telefónica will provide these smaller operators with lists of prohibited IPs, URLs, and domain names used for illicit broadcasting.
The implementation begins immediately, coinciding with the Champions League clash between Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona. The expanded blocking protocol will continue through high-profile matches such as Bayern Munich versus Real Madrid and extend into non-football sporting events.
