Sky Sports fans warned over changes to their TV channels
Sky UK has introduced a fresh round of channel number changes as of Monday, 28 July 2025, affecting various Sky Sports channels across Sky satellite, Sky Glass, and Sky Stream services. These updates are part of Sky’s regular reshuffling process aimed at improving user experience, streamlining seasonal programming, and restoring branding after temporary changes.
One of the biggest shifts is the return of Sky Sports Action to its usual place. Over the summer, this channel was temporarily renamed Sky Sports The Lions to cover the British & Irish Lions rugby tour. As of 28 July, it has reverted to its standard branding—Sky Sports Action / Action HD—and is now found on channel 408 for both satellite and streaming users.
Another notable change involves Sky Sports+ HD, which has moved from channel 412 to 404 on Sky’s satellite service. Although this particular change does not affect streaming viewers on Sky Glass or Sky Stream, satellite users will need to re-familiarize themselves with the new positioning to avoid missing key sporting events.
These reshuffles may seem small, but they’re part of a broader strategy that Sky frequently employs to align channels with seasonal events, promotional content, and viewer habits. Temporary renaming—like that of Sky Sports The Lions—is commonly used during major tournaments or exclusive coverage periods, after which channels revert to their usual format.
Sky viewers are encouraged to check their electronic programme guides (EPGs) to make sure they can easily locate their favourite channels. A quick rescan or update may help ensure the latest lineup is reflected accurately.
As the sports calendar continues to evolve—especially in the run-up to the new football, rugby, and cricket seasons—more changes could come. Staying informed ensures you won’t miss out on any major events, from Premier League matches to international rugby showdowns.
In summary:
- Sky Sports+ HD moves from 412 to 404
- Sky Sports Cricket HD moves from 404 to 405
- Sky Sports Golf HD moves from 405 to 406
- Sky Sports F1 HD moves from 406 to 407
- Sky Sports Tennis HD moves from 407 to 408
- Sky Sports Action HD moves from 408 to 412
IN addition, there will be some other Sky channel changes made on Thursday 31st July:
- Sky Nature UK and ROI services move from 124(125 Scotland) to 145 on satellite only
- Sky Arts UK and ROI services move from 130(131 Scotland) to 124(125 Scotland) on satellite only
- Challenge UK and ROI services move from 145 to 130(131 Scotland) on satellite only
About Sky Sports
Sky Sports on satellite continues to offer one of the most comprehensive sports packages available in the UK, with a wide range of dedicated channels covering football, motorsport, cricket, golf, tennis and more. The platform provides a mix of live events, highlights, analysis and news, all delivered through specific HD channels designed to focus on each major sport.
The core lineup includes Sky Sports Main Event, which showcases the biggest live matches and premium events from across the network. Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Football provide extensive football coverage, while Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Golf focus on their respective sports with live tournaments, series and expert commentary. Motorsport fans can enjoy continuous Formula 1 coverage on Sky Sports F1, and tennis has its own dedicated home with Sky Sports Tennis.
Additional channels such as Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Mix carry a variety of sports from NFL to netball, wrestling and other live events that don’t fit into the main categories. Sky Sports News offers 24-hour updates, analysis and breaking sports stories, while Sky Sports Racing provides horse-racing coverage from the UK and abroad.
In recent years, Sky has completed its transition to high-definition broadcasting for all sports channels on satellite, closing the older SD versions. This ensures consistent picture quality for all subscribers and maximises satellite capacity. For viewers in the UK and those using satellite reception abroad, the current Sky Sports lineup remains a strong, reliable way to watch premium live sport without relying on internet streaming.

Good we have Google search as my Radio Times obviously useless–would have missed Rugby otherwise
Nice of Sky Sports to change channels –my Radio Times obviously didnt know-nearly missed my Rugby
It was announced after they closed the issue for print…but it was on 401 Main Event like it was always scheduled anyway