Nine launches Stan Sport following rugby union deal
Streaming service Stan has launched a sports-only channel in an attempt to expand its product offering. One major code is already on board.
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Streaming service Stan has launched a sports-only channel in an attempt to expand its product offering in the highly competitive video-on-demand market.
In a statement lodged to the Australian Stock Exchange on Monday, owners Nine Entertainment said the major streaming service would begin offering an on-demand sport streaming service as a bundle to Stan customers.
The launch of Stan Sport coincides with an agreement between Nine and Rugby Australia for the broadcasting rights for all Wallabies and Wallaroos games for the next three years.
Worth approximately $100 million, the deal also gives Nine the right to extend the rugby union agreement for another two years.
The deal will include trans-Tasman matches, South African competitions and Super Rugby games.
Nine’s decision to initiate a dedicated sports-on-demand product is in direct competition with sports streaming service Kayo, which is owned by Foxtel.
In its statement, Nine said the rugby union agreement was a core element of Stan Sport, which is also seeking to acquire similar rights with other major sports.
“Further to rugby union, Nine is progressing opportunities to invest in additional exclusive sports rights, focusing on driving its long-term subscriber growth and profitability objectives,” Nine said.
Nine wholly acquired Stan following its merger with Fairfax Media in 2018.
Originally published as Nine launches Stan Sport following rugby union deal