Only the channel known as "ESPN" has the rights to show some sports events, which is why ESPN will continue to exist for a time under the ownership of BT until these rights expire.
Whilst the channel known as "ESPN" is in existence, the channel has to be carried on VM under the current arrangements for contractual reasons. Of course, contracts can be renegotiated to take a holistic approach...
When companies sell assets, especially assets that they know a competitor is keen to get their hands on, they do tend to bundle in weaker performing parts of the business.
Examples are that pub management companies will offload poor performing pubs too as a condition of selling a highly desirable outlet to another company.
When NTL wanted SKY 2 on their platform, they had to agree to take Sky Travel and Sky Travel+1.
If the allegations about Sky Atlantic are correct, expect to see other gems such as Pick TV+1
Whilst ESPN has to stay for the reasons above, there are no requirements that the channel has to be broadcast in the HD format.
I can confirm that Sky staff have now been given strict instructions to cease and desist from claiming exclusivity for Sky Atlantic on the Sky platform.
If anybody comes across Sky staff not following this direction from their management, can you please let me know via PM
