Versus on DIRECTV

Unfortunately, the Versus sports network is no longer available on DIRECTV. DIRECTV's contract to carry Versus ended at the end of August. While it was obvious we could not immediately come to terms on a new deal, DIRECTV offered to keep Versus up temporarily under the old deal while we continued to negotiate, but Comcast declined. In fact, they sent us a letter saying that if we didn't agree to the terms they had on the table at the time, that we had no choice but to take it down at the beginning of September. Since then, we've been negotiating to try and come to terms on a new contract.

DIRECTV has negotiated hundreds of programming contracts like this over the years and has always been able to negotiate a fair deal that was equitable for both sides.

However, thus far, Versus has not presented us with a deal that is acceptable with respect to all material terms and conditions. Our goal is to reach an overall deal that will allow us to provide the best programming at the fairest prices to all of our customers. We feel the best way to get a deal done is by negotiating face-to-face, not through the media and the public. We are speaking with senior Comcast execs now to try and get this done.

We understand that sports fans are not interested in all the back and forth between the two companies, they just want to see their games. DIRECTV has indeed made a formal offer to put some of the marquee games up while we continue to negotiate.

Regardless, our commitment to deliver the best TV service for the best price is and has always been our first priority. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

DIRECTV still leads the industry in sports programming, whether or not we have Versus in our channel lineup. For college football, NHL hockey and other sports, here's just a brief list of what's available on DIRECTV:

• •College football: Available on Big Ten Network, CBS College Sports, ESPN, ESPNU, ESPN GamePlan, The Mtn., local channels and your RSN.
• •NHL: Available on NHL Network, NHL Center Ice, and your RSN.
• •Mixed Martial Arts: Available on HDNet, Spike TV, and UFC on DIRECTV Pay Per View.
• •Auto Racing: Available on IRL on ABC, Formula 1 on Fox and Speed.
• •Bull riding: Available on ESPN2 and the Houston Rodeo on DIRECTV Pay Per View
• •Hunting and fishing: Available on ESPN2, The Sportsman Channel, The Outdoor Channel, and Pursuit TV.