Matchroom Sport to launch global OTT TV service

Matchroom Sport, the UK sports promotion and programming supplier with interests in sports including boxing darts and snooker headed by Barry Hearn, is to launch a global OTT platform in the spring.

The streaming service, which will provide access to its portfolio of events, is being built and powered by sports streaming and video technology specialist StreamAMG.

Matchroom Live will host a selection of 12 sports and will be available through a dedicated website and on native iOS and Android apps with casting capabilities, enabling casting to consoles, smart TV or connected device.

Viewers will be able to watch up to four live events at the same time with QuadPlay, a four-screen view feature of the service.

The service will primarily offer subscription packages and pay-per-view options. However, StreamAMG has given Matchroom Sport the ability to also deploy subscription-funded, sponsorship-funded, ad-funded or hybrid commercial models by sport and territory.

At launch, Matchroom Sport will offer live broadcasts of events in territories in which it has not already sold broadcast rights, including the World Darts Championship and Premier League Darts, Pool’s Mosconi Cup and World Pool Championship, plus the World Snooker Championship and The Masters and the remainder of Matchroom Sport’s catalogue of live events.

The service will also feature event highlights, replays and a catalogue of on-demand content covering Matchroom’s portfolio of events, available worldwide free of charge.

Matchroom Sport has also tapped StreamAMG to deliver a subscriber acquisition and marketing strategy in key markets. StreamAMG is a long-standing partner to Matchroom Sport and has operated darts streaming and ticketing website PDC.TV since 2016, overseeing subscriber growth of 70% in that period, according to StreamAMG.

The company also streamed the boxing re-match between Anthony Joshua and Andy Luiz for the Indian Subcontinent in December 2019.

StreamPlay is handling live production, global delivery, on demand video content management, user management and payments and the front end experience for the service.

“Matchroom Live will allow us to reach new audiences, grow our international presence and offer world-class entertainment for fans across the globe. StreamAMG’s track record makes them a fantastic partner to launch this service and provide an excellent experience for viewers worldwide,” said Hearn, chairman, Matchroom Sport.

“This is a unique platform with a unique offering. Matchroom Sport have always been quick to adopt new technology and new business models, and we’re delighted to support their ambition,” said Hugo Sharman, CEO, StreamAMG.