Streaming giants DAZN are in discussions to secure broadcasting rights for the Super League, potentially shaking up the sport's coverage.
Rugby League Live reports that talks have been ongoing, and there are indications that DAZN intends to become the primary broadcaster from 2024, marking a significant shift in the sport's landscape. Sky Sports, the longstanding broadcaster of Super League, now faces stiff competition in retaining its rights.
DAZN has established itself as a leading sports streaming service, gaining prominence in the boxing world. Notably, they secured a five-year deal in 2021 with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Sports, luring him away from Sky Sports. However, their reach extends beyond boxing, as they also hold rights to women's football, MMA, NBA basketball, and even stream the NRL across Europe. With their expansive coverage, DAZN's potential partnership with rugby league could expand their footprint even further.
One intriguing aspect of DAZN's interest is their track record of streaming every game throughout a season, exemplified by their deal with the NFL. This prospect of comprehensive coverage would not only excite domestic fans but also offer international supporters the opportunity to access games.
However, such a deal would raise questions about future partnerships with Sky Sports and Channel 4, both of which currently broadcast Super League games. Nevertheless, having multiple interested parties vying for the rights should benefit the sport financially, ensuring the best possible deal.
Unlike Sky Sports, DAZN is a sports streaming service akin to Netflix or Amazon Prime. Users can download the app on smartphones, smart televisions, and select gaming consoles. Additional details are likely to emerge after the conclusion of talks, although the Rugby Football League declined to comment at this time. It is expected that the negotiations will progress and conclude next month, resulting in a finalised agreement. The broadcasting rights, whether with a single broadcaster or multiple entities, will be revealed in due course.
The idea of rugby league no longer being on Sky Sports may seem inconceivable due to their longstanding partnership. However, with DAZN emerging as a formidable contender and the previous broadcast deal losing value, significant changes may be on the horizon.
This article was crafted with the help of AI tools, which speed up the MEN's editorial research. A Manchester Evening News editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to newsdesk@men-news.co.uk*
*You may notice the below message on a small number of Manchester Evening News articles. We like to innovate and this is part of a trial to look at whether AI can help speed up the publishing process. We will always declare where this happens.
