February 3 – Evision, the media and entertainment subsidiary of UAE mobile telecoms business e& (formerly Etisalat), has announced a strategic partnership with FIFA+ to bring the football-focused channel to STARZ ON, its free ad-supported streaming platform. This collaboration aims to enhance football content offerings in the MENA region by providing 24/7 access to premium FIFA programming at no cost.
The FIFA+ channel offers an archive of historic World Cup matches, behind-the-scenes content, and various highlights from top teams around the world.
“Football remains a cornerstone of sports consumption in the MENA region, and the launch of the FIFA+ Channel on STARZ ON marks a significant step in redefining sports entertainment,” said Olivier Bramly, CEO of evision. “We are enhancing the value proposition of STARZ ON while fostering a deeper connection between football fans and the sport they love.”
This partnership comes at a crucial time for FIFA, which has been looking to expand its FIFA+ streaming platform. In June 2024, FIFA engaged UBS Group AG to raise up to $2 billion for its broadcast platform to accelerate growth and bring in investors, particularly targeting the US and the Middle East capital markets.
Launched in 2022, FIFA+ was designed to broaden the global reach of football, particularly by streaming matches from smaller member associations and women’s competitions that were not at a significant standard to attract mainstream broadcast deals.
FIFA is seeking new revenue streams beyond its flagship World Cup, as it looks to build flagging commercial momentum between tournaments. The governing body has faced challenges securing sponsorship and broadcast deals for its upcoming expanded Club World Cup, making new investment in its digital platform FIFA+ even more critical as the sports body looks to finance its ambition both as an event organiser and media business.
Sunil K. Joy, head of content at evision, said: “Streaming sports content has always been a key pillar for STARZ ON. The addition of FIFA+ strengthens our commitment to bringing relevant and recognisable brands to local audiences. Partnerships like this are instrumental in reshaping the Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST) ecosystem, not just for our service but for the region as a whole.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1738602974labto1738602974ofdlr1738602974owedi1738602974sni@g1738602974niwe.1738602974yrrah1738602974