Qatari-based international sports network, BeIN Sports, has announced a partnership with global over-the-top streaming service Prime Video. This collaboration marks the introduction of BeIN as a standalone channel for football streaming on Prime Video service in Australia.
The new channel is available as an AU$14.99 ($9.39) per month add-on to the standard Prime Video package. It is already live and represents the first standalone live sports channel available on Prime Video in Australia.
Mike Kerr, Managing Director BeIN Asia Pacific, said:
“This partnership with Prime Video Channels marks a significant milestone for beIN SPORTS as we continue to enhance the sports viewing experience for fans in Australia.”
“Through this exciting alliance, we are not only expanding our reach but also ensuring that the sports community have unparalleled access to our premium and exclusive sports coverage.”
This package will showcase BeIN’s full range of media rights holdings within the country, including, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1 matches.
The announcement comes just before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) international soccer competition, for which BeIN holds broadcasting rights in Australia.
AFCON and BeIN Sports have a long history of controversy
In 2023, there was a two-month-long dispute between BeIN and AFCON organizers - Confederation of African Football (CAF). The conflict arose after CAF terminated its broadcast contract with BeIN in September that year.
However, by November, CAF recommitted to its partnership with BeIN after resolving their disagreements. For some time though it seemed like one of the most extensive media deals for this competition was at risk.
The initial deal between CAF and BeIN was struck back in 2017; it's worth around $415 million covering over 40 countries including Australia.
Sportcal (GlobalData) reported that several issues led to this contract's original cancellation. One significant factor was that over two years ago, BeIN requested an adjustment regarding fees owed to CAF due to various matters affecting their value during AFCON matches in that period.
Furthermore, beIn expressed dissatisfaction towards CAF's perceived failure to adequately address digital piracy and the illegal streaming of BeIN’s content across Africa.
This partnership between BeIN Sports and Prime Video is a significant development for sports fans in Australia. It not only provides them with access to a wide range of international sports events but also marks the first standalone live sports channel on Prime Video in the country.
Despite past disputes, this collaboration shows that both parties are committed to delivering high-quality sports content to their viewers. As such, it will be interesting to see how this partnership evolves and what it means for the future of sports broadcasting in Australia
