Foxtel Group has officially renewed its partnership with the World Surf League (WSL), extending their collaboration for another two years until 2025. This renewal comes at a pivotal time as Foxtel transitions to new ownership under UK streaming giant DAZN, valued at $3.4 billion. The deal ensures that Australian audiences will continue to enjoy live and on-demand coverage of premier surfing events across multiple platforms, including Foxtel, Kayo Sports, and BINGE.
Key Takeaways
- Foxtel Group extends its partnership with WSL through 2025.
- Australian viewers will have access to live and on-demand surfing events.
- Coverage includes major events like the Championship Tour and Challenger Series.
- The partnership highlights the significance of surfing in Australian culture.
The renewed agreement allows Foxtel Group to provide extensive coverage of major WSL events, including the Championship Tour, Challenger Series, and the iconic Bells Beach Longboard Classic. For the first time, select events will also be available on Kayo Freebies, expanding access to surfing fans across Australia.
Adam Howarth, Foxtel Group Director of Content Acquisitions and Sport Partnerships, expressed excitement about the renewal, stating, "We’re thrilled to continue bringing Australians the world’s premier surfing events through our renewed partnership with the World Surf League. Surfing holds a special place in Aussie culture, and with no fewer than three Championship Tour stops right here on our shores next year, we’re committed to showcasing their remarkable journeys."
Highlights of the Partnership
- Major Events Covered: The deal includes comprehensive coverage of the WSL Championship Tour, Challenger Series, and the Bells Beach Longboard Classic.
- New Viewing Options: For the first time, events will be available on BINGE, alongside existing platforms like Foxtel and Kayo Sports.
- Local Heroes: The partnership aims to highlight Australian surfers such as Tyler Wright, Molly Picklum, and Sally Fitzgibbons, who are making waves on the global stage.
In a significant development, the WSL Finals will be hosted at Fiji’s Cloudbreak for the first time, featuring a thrilling one-day showdown among the top five men’s and women’s surfers. This event promises to elevate the excitement surrounding the sport and attract a larger audience.
Andrew Stark, WSL Asia-Pacific President, commented on the partnership, saying, "WSL is thrilled to be continuing this almost two-decade-long partnership with Foxtel Group. Fox Sports has been such a great supporter of the WSL, and having our surfers and events sitting alongside the best footy players, cricketers, basketballers, and racing drivers really elevates our sport."
The Future of Foxtel and WSL
The renewal of this partnership comes as Foxtel Group prepares for a new chapter under DAZN’s ownership. The deal, which is still subject to regulatory approval, positions Foxtel as a leading player in the streaming market, with a focus on sports content.
Foxtel currently boasts 4.7 million subscribers, and the partnership with WSL is expected to enhance its appeal to sports enthusiasts. As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, this collaboration signifies a commitment to delivering high-quality content to Australian viewers.
In conclusion, the extended partnership between Foxtel Group and the World Surf League not only reinforces the importance of surfing in Australian culture but also sets the stage for exciting developments in sports broadcasting. With a focus on local talent and major events, fans can look forward to an exhilarating surfing season ahead.
Sources
- Foxtel Group and World Surf League Renew Partnership – channelnews, ChannelNews.com.au.
- Telecompaper, Telecompaper.