News Corp.'s massive stake in the company made the vote perfunctory, but almost a third of independent shareholders opposed Murdoch's re-election

Court rules that European Union freedoms trump broadcast deals made by the Premier League with BSkyB and ESPN; ramifications beyond sports are questionable, however

Murdoch has the backing of key board members headed into a meeting later this week

Statement: "It has become clear that it is too difficult to progress in this climate"

Culture minister refers deal to the Competition Commission, says it won't happen until next year (if ever)

Critics say Murdoch would still retain influence over public company