New sports tech startup Fanfoot has announced a $150 million acquisition of the global media rights to the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, Brazil’s premier soccer league. Fanfoot is creating a soccer-specific OTT streaming platform that combines the live streaming of games with social interaction between fans.
Fanfoot calls its service the “Netflix of soccer,” and is planning to continue to sign soccer leagues to its streaming platform. The service will launch in early 2019 with built-in live chat communication, newsfeeds, and other social features to drive fan interaction. Fanfoot is a joint venture between Orlando-based social video company FanHero and BR Foot Sports Media, a Brazilian sports rights and management firm.
“We are offering soccer fans and leagues a one-stop-shop for building community and enjoying one of the world’s most beloved sports,” said Humberto Farias, a partner at Fanfoot, in a press release. “Our vision is to be the Netflix of soccer for all leagues in the sport to use the platform and create a compelling experience for new and veteran fans alike, whether it is during a game or in the off-season.
In addition to live streaming HD video of games, Fanfoot says it will include unique content, playbacks, picture-in-picture viewing, and gamification that allows fans to compete for leaderboard spots and special rewards.
“We are thrilled to launch with a top 10 league that is followed closely by soccer fans from around the world and who is able to embrace this opportunity with us,” Farias added.
SportTechie Takeaway
Soccer drives more fan engagement on Instagram and Facebook that any other sport in the world, so adding a social messaging option to a soccer streaming service is a smart approach. Other sports leagues, such as MLB have already streamed games through Facebook and Twitter, social media giants.
While the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A is a significant step for Fanfoot, the truest test will be whether the company can gain a foothold in any of the major European soccer leagues.