Sky Sports were forced to evacuate their studio during AFC Championship coverage between the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos after a fire alarm went off
Sky Sports was forced to issue an apology after their broadcast of the AFC Championship game between the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos was interrupted due to a fire alarm. After the action stopped being shown, message subsequently popped up on screen that stated: “We’re really sorry for this temporary fault.”
The broadcasters’ lead NFL reporter, Neil Reynolds, took to social media to explain the situation: “This is a little bit frustrating. We just got underway on our AFC Championship game, Broncos lead by seven, and a fire alarm goes off.
“We are out of the studio and making sure everyone gets out safe – that’s the priority. If we’re not with you for a few minutes this is why, we will be back soon. I want to watch the game.”
After several minutes of repeated adverts, coverage resumed, with Sky Sports Racing and Sky Sports News also impacted.
Before Reynolds provided an explanation, those watching were left confused by the sudden loss of images, with many turning to X for answers.
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A lot of viewers were unhappy about missing key moments of the match, although it later became clear that the situation was completely out of the Sky Sports’ hands.
@nahsosmall tweeted: “What the hell has happened to the broadcast? We’ve lost CBS coverage and presenters in the Sky studio? This is a Championship game and Sky have fumbled the ball ffs @SkySportsNFL.”
@JoelFourBases tweeted: “Did Sky Sports NFL just not fancy covering that break in play? Just left watching the stadium cam for 5 minutes.”
@JOGOBONlTO posted: “Why have Sky Sports rolled over the same adverts for the past three minutes I thought I was bugging.”
Once coverage resumed, Reynolds stated: “7 a-piece and we are back. It is cold in Denver but I am telling you it is cold outside our studio as well but our fire alarm is over.”
During the interruption, the Patriots had tied the match with the second quarter still in progress. Those analysing the match hoped there would be no further disruptions.
The Patriots have since gone in front and look to be heading to Super Bowl LX in February.