Football: The Undeniable Anchor for Operator Subscriptions
In today’s economic climate, where many feel the sting of rising costs faster than salaries, few consumer choices stand firm like football. Its omnipresence in television packages, bars, and streaming platforms highlights its enduring appeal.
The Value of LaLiga’s Broadcasting Rights
The surge in football’s consumption also reflects its increasing value as a marketable product. LaLiga, Spain’s premier football organization, secured a record €6.135 billion for audiovisual rights covering the cycle from 2027/28 to 2031/32—an impressive 9% increase over the previous cycle. Telefónica and DAZN will continue their partnership to distribute this lucrative content.
Diversification Drives Growth
But where does this staggering €6.135 billion stem from? It’s not solely from households; the diversification of products plays a critical role. The residential segment is responsible for around €5.250 billion, whereas the HORECA (bars and hospitality) sector contributes approximately €650 million. LaLiga Hypermotion, encompassing the Second Division, adds about €175 million, while over €60 million is garnered from open rights and summaries. Football’s presentation is evolving, ensuring it is no longer confined to a single format.
The Subscription Model: Football’s Central Role
For streaming services, football is more than just a game; it’s the cornerstone of their business strategies. As PwC reports, the market is showing signs of saturation, prompting operators like Telefónica’s Movistar Plus+ and DAZN to focus on maximizing revenue per subscriber rather than merely gaining new users. Retaining customers hinges significantly on offering engaging football content.
Football as a Social Experience
The importance of football in our social lives is evidenced by the HORECA segment, which has grown to nearly €650 million from €500 million in the previous cycle. Bars and restaurants that offer football broadcasts provide patrons not only with content but also a shared atmosphere. This social element amplifies the value of televised football.
Innovation in the Second Division with Hypermotion
LaLiga’s innovation is evident in its rebranding of the Second Division as “Hypermotion.” This approach not only redefines the entity but also enhances its presentation and outreach, contributing approximately €175 million, a 40% increase from the last cycle.
Fighting Illegal Broadcasts
Alongside these developments, LaLiga has intensified its battle against illegal broadcasting, instituting measures against unauthorized content distribution. Such efforts have spurred debate, but they reinforce user confidence and boost the number of legitimate subscribers, as General News – 2