The Saudi Pro League Expands Global Reach with DAZN Broadcast Deal
The Saudi Pro League has announced its plans for global broadcast coverage, with subscription streaming channel DAZN set to show games to audiences in the UK. This move comes as part of the league’s efforts to expand its reach following significant investment from the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has attracted high-profile players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
DAZN, a popular streaming service, is close to securing a deal for broadcasting the Saudi Pro League in the UK. The service will also provide coverage in Canada, Germany, Austria, and Belgium. In addition to DAZN, other broadcasters have been confirmed for various territories. Canal+ will broadcast games in France, Sport TV will cover Portugal, La 7 will provide coverage in Italy, and Marca.com will handle broadcasting in Spain. However, a deal for US coverage has yet to be announced.
Viewers will have access to three “marquee” fixtures in each of the 34 gameweeks during the 2023-24 season. The first match is scheduled for Friday, featuring Al Ahli against Al Hazem. On Monday, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr will face Jordan Henderson’s Al Ettifaq, managed by Steven Gerrard.
The Saudi Pro League has been making waves in the football world since June when the PIF acquired a 75% stake in four leading SPL teams: Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr. The remaining 25% is controlled by a non-profit organization. This move has attracted top players from Europe to join these teams, including Ronaldo, Benzema, Henderson, and Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City.
Saad Allazeez, the Saudi Pro League interim CEO, expressed his excitement about the broadcasting agreements, stating, “These agreements come at a time of genuine growth for Saudi Arabian football, with growing interest in the Roshn Saudi League from football fans all around the world.”
The Saudi Pro League’s partnership with DAZN and other broadcasters is a significant step towards achieving its goal of global expansion. With the league’s rising popularity and the influx of high-profile players, there is a growing interest in Saudi Arabian football worldwide.
As the league continues to attract top talent and secure broadcasting deals, it is poised to disrupt the global football landscape. The investment from the PIF has provided the necessary resources to transform the Saudi Pro League into a competitive and internationally recognized football league.
Football fans in the UK and other territories will now have the opportunity to watch exciting matches featuring some of the world’s best players. The broadcast coverage will not only showcase the talent on the field but also provide a platform for fans to engage with Saudi Arabian football and its unique football culture.
The Saudi Pro League’s global broadcast plans have generated significant anticipation among football fans. With DAZN and other broadcasters on board, viewers can look forward to an immersive and comprehensive viewing experience. The league’s commitment to expanding its reach demonstrates its ambition to become a major player in the global football landscape.
As the 2023-24 season kicks off, all eyes will be on the Saudi Pro League and its star-studded teams. The league’s partnership with DAZN and other broadcasters marks a new era for Saudi Arabian football, one that promises excitement, competition, and a fresh perspective on the beautiful game.
In conclusion, the Saudi Pro League’s global broadcast plans, including the partnership with DAZN, are set to revolutionize the way football is consumed and experienced. With high-profile players and a growing fanbase, the league is well-positioned to make its mark on the international stage. Football enthusiasts around the world can now look forward to witnessing the rise of Saudi Arabian football and its journey towards becoming a global powerhouse.