Sky's Soccer AM warned about product placement

LONDON – Ofcom has warned Sky Sports' 'Soccer AM All Sports' show about product placement after a brand of basketball boots was given undue editorial prominence.

In the morning sports show, a presenter showed some basketball boots that were described as being worn by 25% of NBA stars.

The presenter also discussed the Recognise range from basketball footwear brand And1 and next season's boots, telling viewers they cost £70 and would be available from selected stores from October.

Sky defended the programme saying it is meant to take "a light-hearted look" at sports kit items in an "irreverant fashion".

It also said the feature was editorially justified because these particular boots were very popular with top American basketball players and would also be regarded as highly fashionable items.

Ofcom's investigation could not find any hard evidence of product placement occurring, although it did still express concern about the level of detailed information about the boots.

It asked Sky to ensure future programmes avoid undue prominence of commercial products.

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