MLS has demonstrated its continued growth this year by announcing a number of partnerships with foreign broadcast companies.
You can now add another to the list.
MLS announced on Tuesday that it has partnered with leading global media network beIN SPORTS to televise league matches live across Southeast Asia and Australia. The deal will see MLS games reach seven countries throughout the region and marks the first time MLS will be telecast on beIN SPORTS channels in Asia.
The agreement runs from the 2015-18 seasons in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, and Thailand. At least two MLS regular season matches will be aired per week, as well as the AT&T MLS All-Star Game, at least two matches from the newly created Decision Day, all MLS Cup Playoff games and MLS Cup. In addition, beIN SPORTS will carry highlights, player features, and other MLS content across its digital platforms.
“This groundbreaking partnership with beIN SPORTS creates a new platform to increase MLS’ exposure across the region,” Gary Stevenson, president and managing director of MLS Business Ventures, said in a statement. “We are excited to have such a strong brand showcasing MLS games in Asia and Australia.”
The broadcasting partnership is the latest in a series announced by MLS this year. The league has in recent months entered agreements with Globosat in Brazil, Sky Sports in the United Kingdom, Letv Sports in mainland China, Abu Dhabi Media in the Middle East and North Africa, and pan-European broadcaster Eurosport.
“beIN SPORTS philosophy is to ensure that we showcase the best premium sports on our channels globally," said Yousef Al-Obaidliy, CEO, beIN SPORTS APAC. "Through this partnership with MLS we are enabling sports fans in the Asia Pacific region to watch another very exciting league."
