The Guinness PRO14 is to launch its own OTT video platform in the process becoming the first major rugby union competition to enter the direct-to-consumer TV market.
Its agreement with StreamAMG follows streaming of Guinness PRO14 games on social media to selected territories this season.
The service launches officially in time for the climax of the season – the Guinness PRO14 Finals Series.
Dermot Rigley, Commercial Director of PRO14 Rugby, said: “Launching our own OTT video platform to reach fans around the world was a logical next step for us as we experience more demand for the Guinness PRO14 than ever before. To be the first major rugby union tournament to launch an OTT service is in keeping with our commitment to innovation and a commitment to embrace new technologies.”
The service will be based on StreamAMG’s MediaPlatform video management platform as well as incorporating the CloudMatrix feed-based distribution platform. StreamAMG’s proprietary transaction platform, CloudPay, will take care of end-user payments and subscription management.
Duncan Burbidge, Chief Executive Officer of StreamAMG, said: “To be able to work with a top-flight sporting property in the form of Guinness PRO14 is a real honour for us. Our team is relishing the opportunity to bring their technical expertise and sporting expertise to bear in the delivery of a best-in-class OTT proposition.”
Pay-per-view passes for individual games will be priced at €3.99, with a weekend pass (Friday, Saturday, Sunday fixtures; 72 hours) available for €6.99.
Traditional monthly and seasonal options will be launched for the 19/20 season. In addition to live, chargeable match coverage, the service will offer free registration-led access to a comprehensive library of clips, highlights, full-match replays and a range of exclusive content.
The Guinness PRO14 already has broadcast deals in the UK and Ireland with Premier Sports & eir Sport. Further coverage is seen through DAZN, SuperSport and ESPN.
