The Centralization Challenge in Liga MX
The recent visit of Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga, to Mexico City, has ignited discussions surrounding the future of Liga MX. He delivered a succinct yet powerful message: growth within Liga MX hinges on the centralization of its audiovisual rights.
Insights from the Visit
During the presentation of the ‘Leyends’ exhibition alongside Mexican football legend Hugo Sanchez, Tebas outlined his vision for the future of the Mexican championship. He stressed that a significant leap in growth is dependent on adopting a centralized approach to audiovisual rights.
Strengthening Identity
Tebas made it clear that the model used by LaLiga, which controls and sells its audiovisual rights collectively, is key to establishing a strong brand identity. “For me, the most important thing is the centralization of audiovisual rights,” he stated, indicating that this strategy has proven successful in Spain.
“A common image of the brand and community are the pillars for how important LaLiga is… I have told you, but fear and vertigo is human.”
Learning from Global Models
Drawing inspiration from the Premier League, which has been successfully centralizing its rights since 1990, Tebas reflected on how LaLiga adopted a similar approach in 2015. Since then, Spanish football has witnessed remarkable growth, amplifying its brand and reach globally.
Possibilities of Exchange
While discussing potential matches between Spanish teams and Liga MX clubs in Mexico, Tebas acknowledged existing challenges. The saturation of international and local commitments in the football calendar poses a significant barrier.
“The agenda of international competitions makes it difficult to find a suitable space for this type of event. However, conversations are ongoing with FIFA to establish clear regulations.”
The Importance of the Mexican Market
Liga MX is becoming increasingly relevant in the eyes of LaLiga, primarily due to the passionate fanbase that supports its teams. The interest in bridging the gap between the two leagues invites future collaborations and discussions regarding official matches in Mexico.
Future Prospects
Although the future of hosting a LaLiga match in Mexico remains uncertain, the enthusiasm among Mexican fans, combined with LaLiga’s acknowledgment of this key market, suggests that the dream could become a reality. The evolution of negotiations will be crucial in determining how and when this takes place.